Very Common
Less Common
OTHER DIAGNOSES CONSIDERED
Other conditions or ailments that might also need to be ruled out by a vet.
Diagnosis
Conditions or ailments that are the cause of a problem that you see - your observation.
Your vet may diagnose
Large Colon Mechanical Obstruction, Generally
Summary
There are multiple non-strangulating large colon displacements and obstructions that are possible in the horse. The two most well recognized displacements are right dorsal displacement and left dorsal displacement, which are discussed in related records.
Non-strangulating displacements can partially or completely block the transit of feed within the colon. The severity of the signs depends on many factors, including the degree of blockage and the amount of gas distention. Displacement through sheets of tissue (herniation) can also occur and take many forms.
The cause of displacements is truly unknown but likely begins with dysfunction of the colon which leads to its movement out of place. Sometimes, the type of obstruction can be diagnosed with a careful rectal examination and the use of ultrasound. In most cases, however, the nature of the obstruction can only be determined at exploratory abdominal (colic) surgery.
Displacement can be difficult to differentiate from stubborn impaction or other physical obstruction, without surgical exploration.
Non-strangulating displacements can partially or completely block the transit of feed within the colon. The severity of the signs depends on many factors, including the degree of blockage and the amount of gas distention. Displacement through sheets of tissue (herniation) can also occur and take many forms.
The cause of displacements is truly unknown but likely begins with dysfunction of the colon which leads to its movement out of place. Sometimes, the type of obstruction can be diagnosed with a careful rectal examination and the use of ultrasound. In most cases, however, the nature of the obstruction can only be determined at exploratory abdominal (colic) surgery.
Displacement can be difficult to differentiate from stubborn impaction or other physical obstruction, without surgical exploration.
my vet's role
Diagnostics Used
These are tests that might be helpful to make this diagnosis or further characterize the condition.
Very Common
Treatments May Include
These treatments might be used to help resolve or improve this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
PROGNOSIS AND RELEVANT FACTORS
Depends on the specific displacement or obstruction diagnosed. Prognosis is good with early recognition and mechanical resolution of non-strangulating obstructions.my role
I might observe
You might make these observations when a horse has this condition.
Very Common
Less Common
Rare
Skills I Might Need
I might need these skills if my horse has this diagnosis.
Very Common
Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- Why do you think the horse has a displacement?
- With surgery, what is the prognosis?
- What is the cost?
- What is the likelihood of recurrence?
Prevention
All factors that reduce colic in general should help reduce the likelihood of intestinal accident but there are still no guarantees. Examples of "trigger" or risk factors include changes in stabling and management, stressful events, travel, stall confinement, and concurrent disease.
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health
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