Caecal Impaction - Horse

Signalment

Hospitalised horses are at greater risk, especially those with musculoskeletl conditions, often due to the reduction in activity and treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Diagnosis

Clinical signs

• Mild to moderate intermmitant colic signs
• Marginal increase in heart rate
• Reduced gut sounds

Diagnosis can be made on rectal examintion, the caecum is firmer and filled with ingesta and can be indented digitally. The caecal mass will be palpated in the right paralumbar area, identified by the taut ventral caecal band and the fat and blood vessels overlying the medial caecal band.

In most cases the impaction is not sufficiently severe or prolonged to cause cardiovascular compromise or changes in peritoneal fluid, but if the case is chronic or progresses to rupture then the condition is serious and the horse should be closely monitored for worsening clinical signs.

See Colic Diagnosis in Horses

Treatment

Medical Treatment of Colic in Horses

References

• Blood, D.C. and Studdert, V. P. (1999) Saunders Comprehensive Veterinary Dictionary (2nd Edition) Elsevier Science
• Edward Robinson, N and Sprayberry, K. A. (2009) Current Therapy In Equine Medicine Sixth edition Saunders Elsevier
• Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition) Merial
• White, N.A., Edwards, G.B. (1999) Handbook of Equine Colic Reed Educational and Professional Publishing Ltd