Colic in equine neonates: 137 cases (2000-2010).

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Equine Health
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• Colic is a common emergency in equine neonates.
• Understanding causes and outcomes is crucial for treatment decisions.

Purpose of the Study:

• Document causes of colic in equine neonates.
• Evaluate clinical features and survival rates for medical vs. surgical management.
• Assess long-term outcomes and intended use of survivors.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 137 equine neonates (<30 days old) with colic.
• Data collected from medical records and phone surveys for long-term follow-up.
• Analysis of signalment, history, diagnostics, treatment, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Enterocolitis, meconium-associated colic, and transient medical colic were most common diagnoses.
• Small intestinal strangulating obstruction was the main surgical indication.
• Short-term survival rates were similar for medical (75%) and surgical (73%) management.
• Long-term survival for discharged foals was 93%, with 83% achieving intended use.

Conclusions:

• Medical management is feasible for most equine neonatal colic cases.
• Both medical and surgical treatments offer good short-term survival.
• Excellent long-term prognosis exists for foals surviving hospitalization, with most returning to intended use.