Gastric and small intestinal ileus as a cause of acute colic in the post parturient mare.

Summary

# Editorial Summary: Gastric and Small Intestinal Ileus in Post-parturient Mares Functional obstruction of gastric and small intestinal transit (ileus) is not commonly reported in horses, yet Hillyer, Smith and Milligan's 2008 case series identified a cluster of post-parturient mares presenting with this condition, despite its rarity in equine practice. The authors documented clinical recognition and diagnosis of primary ileus in mares in the immediate post-foaling period, examining presentation patterns and clinical features across multiple cases where no underlying anatomical obstruction or identifiable systemic cause could be established. The significance of this work lies in highlighting a previously under-recognised complication of parturition that can manifest as acute colic, potentially affecting mares during a physiologically vulnerable window when other post-parturient complications (infection, haemorrhage, retained placenta) typically command clinical attention. For equine practitioners, this report underscores the importance of considering functional gastrointestinal dysfunction as a differential diagnosis in colicky post-parturient mares where physical examination, ultrasonography and laboratory findings fail to reveal conventional causes of obstruction or peritonitis. Recognition of this condition may alter management strategy away from exploratory surgery towards medical support whilst the temporary loss of normal intestinal motility resolves, ultimately improving outcomes in affected animals.

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Key Findings

• •Primary gastric and small intestinal ileus of undetermined cause was identified in post parturient mares
• •Ileus represents an uncommon but clinically significant cause of gastrointestinal dysfunction and colic in horses
• •Post parturition period appears to be an associated risk factor for development of ileus

Conditions Studied