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Partial colectomy for treating acquired megacolon in long-tailed macaques
P H Eisele1, J E Markovits, J R Paul-Murphy
1California Regional Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis 95616.
Laboratory Animal Science
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Acquired megacolon in macaques, characterized by severe abdominal distension, was successfully treated with partial colectomy. This surgical intervention resolved gastrointestinal signs and prevented recurrence in affected animals.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Surgery
- Primate Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Acquired megacolon is a rare condition characterized by abnormal dilation of the colon.
- Understanding the etiology and effective treatments for acquired megacolon in non-human primates is crucial for their welfare.
Observation:
- Five adult female long-tailed macaques presented with gross abdominal distension and signs of acquired megacolon.
- Clinical signs included diarrhea, anorexia, mucus in stool, and failure to pass stool, with recurrent episodes of extreme distension.
- Affected colons showed histological evidence of degeneration and fibrosis in the lamina muscularis.
Findings:
- Medical management proved ineffective in resolving the acquired megacolon.
- Surgical intervention, specifically partial colectomy with colonic anastomosis, was performed on all affected animals.
- Intra-abdominal adhesions and colonic volvulus were observed in a significant proportion of the cases, suggesting potential links to prior obstetrical surgery.
Implications:
- Partial colectomy is an effective treatment for acquired megacolon in long-tailed macaques, leading to complete clinical recovery.
- The findings suggest a potential association between prior obstetrical surgeries, intra-abdominal adhesions, and the development of acquired megacolon in this species.
- Further research into the specific mechanisms linking surgical history to colonic dysfunction is warranted.