Acquired jejunal pseudodiverticula in a yearling Arabian filly.

The research presents a case of an Arabian filly that successfully underwent treatment for multiple acquired jejunal pseudodiverticula, a condition not typically associated with young horses or muscular hypertrophy.

Background and Methodology

• The authors discuss a unique case study concerning a yearling Arabian filly diagnosed with acquired jejunal pseudodiverticula – an abnormality not commonly found in young horses.
• The filly presented various symptoms, including acute colic (abdominal pain), inappetence, and weight loss, for several weeks.
• An exploratory celiotomy was conducted, during which approximately three meters of swollen and dilated jejunum (the middle part of the small intestine) was removed. This section of the intestine demonstrated signs of intussusception (one part slipping into another) and numerous diverticula (sac-like protrusions on the intestinal wall).
• The surgery included a procedure called jejunojejunostomy, where the upper part of the jejunum was connected to the lower part to re-establish intestinal continuity.

Results and Conclusion

• The post-operative recovery of the filly was notable as there were no complications associated with the gastrointestinal system.
• One year after surgery, the filly was reported to be doing well, framing a promising prognosis for horses that undertake similar surgeries.
• Although pseudodiverticula was found in the filly’s jejunum, the exact cause behind their development was not determined. However, it was evident that they were not congenital.
• This case was unique compared to others with small intestinal diverticula in horses, as it was neither congenital nor associated with typical muscular hypertrophy.
• Such findings suggest it is possible for young horses to acquire multiple jejunal pseudodiverticula that are not linked to classic muscular hypertrophy. This challenges previous understandings and opens the path for extended studies on this phenomenon.