Evidence-based gastrointestinal surgery in horses

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Surgery
• Equine Medicine

Background:

• Colic surgery is a common procedure in equine hospitals globally.
• Significant advancements in survival rates have been observed over the last three decades.
• Despite improvements, high morbidity and mortality rates persist, alongside substantial treatment costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review factors influencing survival rates in equine colic surgery.
• To identify key factors affecting major complications such as incisional issues and postoperative ileus.
• To emphasize the importance of evidence-based medicine for optimizing surgical outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of factors affecting survival rates.
• Discussion of factors contributing to major complications (incisional complications, postoperative ileus).

Main Results:

• Survival rates have improved over 30 years.
• Morbidity and mortality rates remain a significant concern.
• Incisional complications and postoperative ileus are major complications.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based medicine is essential for optimizing equine colic surgery outcomes.
• Further research into factors affecting survival and complications is warranted.
• Focusing on treatment plans and surgical techniques can improve patient outcomes.