Are horses that undergo an exploratory laparotomy for correction of a right dorsal displacement of the large colon predisposed to post operative colic, compared to other forms of large colon displacement?
Authors: Smith L J, Mair T S
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary Smith and Mair's retrospective analysis of 154 horses undergoing surgical correction for non-strangulating large colon displacement between 2000–2008 confirms what many practitioners have observed clinically: right dorsal displacement (RDD) carries a significantly higher risk of recurrent post-operative colic requiring veterinary intervention compared to other displacement types. Their investigation reviewed comprehensive surgical records and obtained long-term follow-up data via clinical records and owner questionnaires, allowing direct comparison of post-operative complication rates across displacement categories. Whilst the paper does not specify the exact recurrence percentages or identify which other displacement types fared better, the statistical significance of increased colic episodes in the RDD cohort suggests these horses warrant cautious owner counselling regarding realistic post-operative expectations and the possibility of repeated intervention. Understanding this predisposition to recurrent colic is crucial for informed decision-making around surgical intervention in RDD cases, particularly when weighing prognosis against the demands of repeat laparotomy, and highlights the need for careful post-operative management protocols and potentially more aggressive dietary or pharmaceutical prophylaxis in this subset of post-operative colic patients.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Counsel owners that horses with right dorsal colon displacement have a significantly higher risk of recurrent colic post-operatively compared to other displacement types—set realistic expectations for long-term prognosis
- •Right dorsal displacement should be flagged as higher risk in post-operative management planning; closer monitoring and owner education may reduce complications
- •Consider this higher recurrence rate when discussing surgical versus conservative management options and long-term cost-benefit with owners
Key Findings
- •Horses with right dorsal displacement of the large colon were significantly more likely to experience recurrent post-operative colic episodes requiring veterinary intervention compared to other types of nonstrangulating displacement
- •Study reviewed 165 surgeries in 154 horses undergoing exploratory laparotomy for large colon displacement between 2000-2008
- •Follow-up included telephone questionnaires and computerised clinical records to assess post-operative colic recurrence and need for repeat celiotomy