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Jejunoileal incarceration and strangulation through a splenic defect in a mare
P Hélie1, V J Ammann, I Kervern
1Laboratoire de pathologie animale, Ministère de l'agriculture, des pêcheries et de l'alimentation du Québec, St-Hyacinthe.
The Canadian Veterinary Journal = La Revue Veterinaire Canadienne
|September 25, 1999
Summary
A congenital splenic defect caused fatal intestinal strangulation in a horse. This rare condition highlights the importance of considering congenital anomalies in equine colic cases.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Surgery
- Equine Internal Medicine
- Congenital Abnormalities
Background:
- Colic is a common presenting complaint in horses, often requiring prompt diagnosis and intervention.
- Intestinal strangulation is a surgical emergency that can lead to rapid deterioration and necessitates euthanasia if severe.
- Congenital defects, while less common, can predispose horses to gastrointestinal complications.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old Standardbred mare presented with a 12-hour history of colic.
- Transrectal palpation indicated intestinal distension, but the underlying cause remained unclear.
- The mare was ultimately euthanized due to the severity of her condition.
Findings:
- Necropsy revealed segmental jejunoileal incarceration and strangulation.
- The intestine had passed through an abnormal opening within the spleen.
- This splenic defect was identified as a congenital anomaly.
Implications:
- Congenital splenic defects can lead to life-threatening gastrointestinal emergencies in horses.
- This case underscores the need for thorough post-mortem examinations to identify rare causes of colic.
- Understanding such anomalies can aid in future diagnostic approaches and risk assessment for equine colic.