Risk factors for epiploic foramen entrapment colic in a UK horse population: a prospective case-control study.
Authors: Archer D C, Pinchbeck G L, French N P, Proudman C J
Journal: Equine veterinary journal
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Risk factors for epiploic foramen entrapment colic Epiploic foramen entrapment (EFE) represents a significant cause of strangulation colic in horses, yet its epidemiology remained poorly understood when this research was undertaken. Over 24 months, researchers across nine UK veterinary clinics compared 77 horses that had suffered EFE with 216 control horses, using logistic regression to identify both horse-level and management factors associated with the condition. Crib-biting and windsucking behaviours emerged as the strongest risk factors, whilst a prior history of colic in the preceding year, increased stabling duration in the previous month, and greater height also substantially elevated EFE risk; conversely, access to mineral/salt licks, a calm temperament and feeding at times different from other horses were protective. The association between prolonged stabling and EFE incidence provides a plausible explanation for the seasonal pattern of this condition, suggesting that winter management practices may inadvertently increase susceptibility. For practitioners, these findings indicate that behavioural assessment and management modifications—particularly reducing unnecessary stabling periods and providing environmental enrichment—warrant consideration alongside standard colic prevention strategies, especially in tall horses or those with established colic histories.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •Horses with crib-biting or windsucking behaviour require closer monitoring for colic signs, particularly during high-stabling periods, as they face significantly elevated EFE risk
- •Ensure previously colicky horses have adequate turnout and turnout time, as increased stabling duration is a modifiable risk factor for EFE
- •Consider management modifications such as providing mineral/salt licks and maintaining consistent feeding routines across the group, which may reduce EFE risk
Key Findings
- •Crib-biting/windsucking behaviour showed the strongest association with increased EFE risk in the multivariable model
- •History of colic in previous 12 months, increased stabling duration in previous 28 days, and greater horse height all independently increased EFE likelihood
- •Access to mineral/salt lick, being easily frightened, and not being fed at the same time as others were protective factors against EFE
- •Increased stabling duration may explain the seasonal pattern of EFE occurrence