Clinical outcomes after colopexy through left ventral paramedian incision in 156 thoroughbred broodmares with large colon disorders (1999-2015).
Authors: Broyles Alecsya H, Hopper Scott A, Woodie J Brett, Ruggles Alan J
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Colopexy outcomes in thoroughbred broodmares Between 1999 and 2015, researchers retrospectively analysed 156 thoroughbred mares that underwent colopexy (surgical fixation of the large colon) via left ventral paramedian incision for large colon disorders, evaluating both short-term complications and long-term reproductive viability. Hospital discharge rates were encouraging at 93%, with 78% of mares surviving to one year post-operatively; recurrence of large colon volvulus occurred in only 1.2% of cases and colon rupture in 3%, suggesting the technique provides reliable anatomical stabilisation. The development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, post-operative diarrhoea, or thrombophlebitis significantly worsened prognosis (four-fold increase in mortality risk), highlighting the importance of aggressive peri-operative management and early recognition of these complications. Among mares that survived to discharge and were subsequently bred, 66% of those pregnant at surgery produced live foals, with annual conception rates of 67% in subsequent breeding seasons—demonstrating that affected mares retain substantial reproductive value. This technique offers farriers and equine practitioners a practical surgical option with favourable outcomes for breeding soundness, particularly as it avoids creating problematic adhesions or requiring multiple incisions whilst maintaining the mare's future fertility.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Left ventral paramedian colopexy offers good long-term survival and reproductive outcomes for thoroughbred broodmares with large colon disorders—most mares can return to breeding soundly
- •Monitor closely for SIRS, diarrhea, and thrombophlebitis postoperatively as these significantly affect survival; their presence should guide intensive supportive care decisions
- •Mares treated with this technique have low recurrence rates (1-3%), making it a reliable surgical option that avoids complications associated with linea alba adhesions
Key Findings
- •Colopexy via left ventral paramedian incision achieved 93% survival to discharge and 78% survival at 1 year in 156 thoroughbred broodmares
- •Recurrence of large colon volvulus occurred in only 1.2% of cases, with colon rupture in 3%
- •Presence of SIRS, diarrhea, or thrombophlebitis increased risk of death within 1 year (OR 4.76)
- •66% of mares pregnant at surgery and discharged alive produced live foals; 67% live foal rate in subsequent breeding years