Colopexy in broodmares: 44 cases (1986-1990)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Equine Medicine
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Large colon volvulus and right dorsal displacement are serious abdominal conditions in horses.
• Recurrence of these conditions can necessitate further surgical intervention.
• Broodmares are a population susceptible to large colon displacement and volvulus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of colopexy in preventing recurrence of large colon volvulus or displacement.
• To assess the outcomes and complications associated with colopexy in broodmares.
• To determine the long-term viability of colopexy in a predisposed equine population.

Main Methods:

• Colopexy was performed on 44 broodmares with large colon volvulus or right dorsal displacement.
• The procedure involved suturing the lateral bands of the ventral colon to the abdominal wall.
• Follow-up examinations assessed survival, complications, and reproductive success.

Main Results:

• 36 horses survived over 6 months post-colopexy.
• 27 mares successfully foaled, producing 40 foals.
• Complications included abdominal pain (7), reoperation (5), fistulous tracts (1), and colon rupture (2).

Conclusions:

• Colopexy is a viable surgical technique for preventing recurrence of large colon displacement or volvulus.
• The procedure demonstrated success in selected broodmares, allowing for subsequent foaling.
• Careful patient selection is important for optimizing colopexy outcomes.