![]() ![]() Postoperatively, Canajoharie was treated with IV fluids, broad spectrum antibiotics, NSAID (“Banamine”), and a gradual return to feeding. The incision into the bowel was sutured closed as was the deep abdominal layer (the linea alba) and the skin. (See Fig 1.) The impaction was corrected via a pelvic flexure enterotomy (opening of the bowel to remove and flush out the contents) followed by correct repositioning of the large colon within the abdominal cavity. Colic surgery revealed a right dorsal displacement of the large colon with a right dorsal colon impaction. The colic surgical team was called in and within 45 minutes Canajoharie was prepped and ready for surgery. Waiting too long can cause further bowel deterioration and also necessitate much more supportive care which translates into much more expense for the owner. Ideally, colic surgery should be performed as soon as medical therapy has been shown not to relieve the horse’s pain and discomfort. Discussions with the owners on the fact that despite this more aggressive medical therapy he continued to show signs of abdominal pain the decision was made to perform an exploratory laparotomy (colic surgery). Treatment at SSEC included a full colic work (ultrasound, belly tap, blood work), IV fluid therapy and additional analgesics for pain. The owners had now decided to transport him to the hospital at SSEC for further evaluation and treatment. The owners were initially hesitant to do so.ĭespite initial medical therapy Canajoharie continued to show signs of abdominal pain. Bueno advised the owners that their horse may need further treatment at a facility equipped to perform colic surgery. The horse was treated medically with pain relievers, or analgesics, (xylazine and butorphanol), and oral mineral oil and electrolytes via a nasogastric (“stomach”) tube. The examination revealed a mildly elevated heart rate (48 bpm), slightly distended large colon on palpation per rectum, and signs of mild-moderate abdominal pain. The owners had given a 1,000 lbs dose of flunixin meglumine (“Banamine”) orally approximately 1.5 hours before Dr. Bueno, our board certified surgeon, was on call for the evening and was immediately dispatched to the barn for an evaluation. He was displaying signs of abdominal discomfort including pawing, looking at the flanks, and attempting to lie down. ![]()
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