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Umbilical Cord Herniation With Small Intestinal Evisceration in Two Thoroughbred Neonates
Rachel Gough1, Kate McGovern1, Bruce Bladon1
1Donnington Grove Veterinary Group, Newbury, Berkshire, UK.
Journal of Equine Veterinary Science
|April 17, 2022
Summary
Two foals experienced spontaneous umbilical cord herniation, leading to intestinal evisceration. Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for survival and successful outcomes in equine neonates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Neonatal Care
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Spontaneous small intestinal evisceration through intact umbilical stumps is rare in foals.
- Umbilical cord herniation is a recognized condition in human neonates but previously undescribed in equines.
Observation:
- Two cases presented immediately after uneventful parturition, with intestines eviscerating via normally inserted umbilical stumps without abdominal wall trauma.
- One foal succumbed prior to veterinary intervention.
- The second foal underwent successful jejunal resection and anastomosis.
Findings:
- This report documents umbilical cord herniation as a novel cause of spontaneous intestinal evisceration in foals.
- Successful surgical management, including jejunal resection and end-to-end anastomosis, can lead to survival and a positive long-term prognosis.
Implications:
- Highlights a previously unrecognized condition in equine neonates.
- Emphasizes the critical importance of rapid and appropriate veterinary intervention for foals presenting with intestinal evisceration.
- Suggests umbilical cord herniation should be considered in the differential diagnosis for neonatal abdominal emergencies in foals.
