Topic:Congenital Disorders
Congenital disorders in horses encompass a range of structural, functional, or metabolic anomalies present at birth. These disorders may arise from genetic mutations, environmental factors, or a combination of both, affecting various systems in the equine body. Common congenital disorders in horses include cleft palate, umbilical hernias, and limb deformities. The diagnosis and management of these conditions require a multidisciplinary approach involving veterinary genetics, surgery, and rehabilitation. This page compiles peer-reviewed research studies and scholarly articles that explore the etiology, diagnosis, and management strategies for congenital disorders in equine medicine.
T-shaped malformation of the ventral colon in a Thoroughbred filly with colic. A 4-month-old Thoroughbred filly presented for abdominal pain was diagnosed with a T-shaped malformation of the ventral colon at exploratory laparotomy. Following resection and anastomosis of the large colon, no further episodes of abdominal pain occurred during a 12-month follow-up. Acute dehiscence of the linea alba occurred as a complication of the initial laparotomy, but was successfully managed following additional surgical repair. T-shaped malformation of the ventral colon has not previously been reported and is considered a congenital malformation of mesocolon formation.