Rectal and colonic injury in the llama. Anatomic considerations and surgical management in four llamas

Transrectal palpation in llamas can result in iatrogenic rectal and colonic injury. The purpose of this report is to define the caudal extent of the peritoneal cavity in llamas and to describe the surgical management of rectal or colonic injuries in four llamas. Measurements were made of six adult llamas during necropsy. The mean distance from the peritoneal reflection to the anus was 3.9 +/- 0.1 cm (3.4-4.3 cm). Four llamas were examined for rectal or colonic perforations. One laceration was of partial thickness and three lacerations were of full thickness. Two of the defects were repaired by a transanal approach and two by celiotomy to facilitate removal of fecal debris and abdominal lavage. Successful repair of the rectal or colonic tears was achieved in all four llamas. Wound infection and incisional hernia occurred in both llamas that underwent celiotomy. Two llamas died 3 and 18 months later, and two llamas have survived 2 years. Rectal tears in llamas are accompanied by a high risk of peritoneal contamination, and primary closure is recommended. If fecal contamination of the abdomen has occurred, celiotomy is indicated to allow mechanical removal of fecal debris and peritoneal lavage.