Difference between revisions of "Category:Medical Colic in the Horse"

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=====Left dorsal displacement=====
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=====[[Left Dorsal Displacemen]]t=====
Left dorsal displacement, or nephrosplenic entrapment, is a frequent cause of colic, where the left dorsal and ventral colon become displaced, and then trapped by the [[spleen]] laterally, the [[kidney]] medially, and the [[nephrosplenic ligament]] ventrally.  It can be diagnosed by rectal examination.  The first line of treatment is intra-venous [[phenylephrine]] injection, which acts to contract the spleen, so helping release the trapped colon.  This is often combined with gentle exercise to encourage movement of the abdominal contents.  Circling on the left rein is considered particularly helpful, as it increases the potential space between the spleen and the body wall, allowing more room for the colon to return to its normal location.  If this fails, then general anaesthesia is needed.  Replacement of the colon is then attempted by rolling of the horse.  If this also fails then surgery is needed to correct the displacement.
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====Small Colon====
 
====Small Colon====

Revision as of 10:27, 6 June 2010






Flatulent Colic

Impaction, Pelvic Flexure


Left Dorsal Displacement

Small Colon

Pelvic masses

A persistent mild colic may be found when intra-pelvic masses impinge upon the gastro-intestinal tract. Most commonly these are haematomas. Peri-anal lesions, such as melanomas may also produce these signs.

Neurological deficits

A complete or partial paralysis of the small colon and rectum may occur with polyneuritis equi, resulting in a lack of faecal expulsion, and consequent obstruction. A diagnosis is made via a neurological examination. Treatment is palliative only, although the condition can be managed for many years by manual emptying of the rectum.