Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Caecal impactions managed surgically by typhlotomy in 10 cases (1988-1998).
- Journal:
- Equine veterinary journal. Supplement
- Year:
- 2000
- Authors:
- Roberts, C T & Slone, D E
- Affiliation:
- Peterson and Smith Equine Hospital · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
This study looked at how to treat a blockage in the cecum (a part of the intestine) in horses through surgery. Over a ten-year period, 10 horses with their first cecal impaction were treated with a procedure called typhlotomy, which involves opening the cecum to relieve the blockage. Out of these horses, 9 survived and were doing well an average of 43 months after their surgery. All horses received standard care after the operation, and some were also treated for a specific type of intestinal worm. The findings suggest that typhlotomy is a good option for treating first-time cecal impactions in horses.
Abstract
Surgical management of caecal impactions has included several different procedures suggested over the years. Complete bypass of the caecum through an ileocolic or jejunocolic anastomosis has become common practice for first time caecal impaction management, especially when dysfunction is suspected. In our practice, however, caecal impactions have been managed surgically by typhlotomy alone and of the 10 cases (July 1988-June 1998), 9 underwent surgery for first time caecal impactions, received a typhlotomy, and had survived an average of 43 months at time of case review. At the time of surgery, all were considered to have a dysfunctional caecum. All horses received routine postoperative care with the addition of anthelmintics as recovery of Anoplocephala perfoliata occurred in several cases. Typhlotomy should be considered an acceptable technique for surgical management of first time caecal impactions. Postoperative pyrantel pamoate and larvicidal anthelmintics should also be considered.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11202388/