Left Dorsal Displacement of Large Colon - Horse
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Also known as Nephrosplenic entrapment
Description
The left colon becomes displaced and lodged in the nephrosplenic space. Entrapment over the nephrosplenic ligament results in simple obstrcuction of the colon, usually without vacular compromise. The exact cause is unknown but it is thought that changes in the ingesta, gas content and motor activity of the colon are important factors.
Signalment
Large breed and wide bodied horses are predisposed to this condition.
Diagnosis
Clinical Signs
- Moderate abdominal pain and signs of colic
- Mild tachycardia
- Decreased faecal output
- Inappetence
See Colic Diagnosis in Horses Diagnosis is usually made on a combination of rectal examination and abdominal ultrasound. On rectal examination the pelvic flexure or left colon can be felt in the nephrosplenic space, the spleen is often displaced towards the midline. The displaced colon becomes distended with gas due to compression over the nephrosplenic ligament.
Ultrasound
Abdominal ultrasound is a sensitive diagnostic tool; the left colon can be identified in the nephrosplenic space, it may partially or completely obscure the left kidney.
Treatment
See Medical Treatment of Colic in Horses
Prognosis
Prognosis is good, in most cases the condidtion can be resolved without surgery.
References
- Mair, T.S, Divers, T.J, Ducharme, N.G (2002) Manual of Equine Gastroenterology, WB Saunders.
- Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition) Merial
- Robinson, N.E., Sprayberry, K.A. (2009) Current Therapy in Equine Medicine (Sixth Edition) Saunders Elsevier
- Rose, R. J. and Hodgson, D. R. (2000) Manual of Equine Practice (Second Edition) Sauders
- White, N.A., Edwards, G.B. (1999) Handbook of Equine Colic Reed Educational and Professional Publishing Ltd