Large colon impaction in horses : field management and prognostic parameters

Abstract EN

Medical records of horses with large colon impaction were reviewed within a period of 2 years during examination horses belonging to Smouha Club, Alexandria Province.The signalment, clinical and laboratory findings, treatment and outcome were studied.

Heart rate, respiratory rate, capillary refill time, hematocrit, hemoglobin concentration, blood lactate, total serum protein and anion gap proved to be quantitative parameters presented significant prognostic value between horses that survivors and non-survivors.

Most horses with large colon impaction can be treated medically when early intensive management is considered.

However, some impactions are refractory to these treatments and the horse will continue to have signs of abdominal pain and shock.