Bypass surgery for the treatment of small intestinal ileus in the horse. A report of three cases.

This research presents cases of three horses that had unsuccessful medical management for simple and strangulating small intestinal obstructions but responded well to surgical bypasses. The bypass was particularly effective in reducing the need for invasive procedures like intravenous fluid administration and repeated nasogastric intubation.

Objective of the Research

• The study was primarily focused on exploring the efficacy of surgical bypasses in treating horses with simple and strangulating small intestinal obstructions, particularly those unresponsive to medical management. The horses in the study presented with abdominal pain, gastric distention, heart rate elevations greater than 60/minute, and small intestinal distention.

Methods Used and Case Selection

• The researchers implemented jejunocecostomies, a type of small intestine bypass surgery, in three horses that had postoperative paralytic ileus unresponsive to medical management.
• Factors such as abdominal pain, gastric distention, elevated heart rate, and intestinal distention on rectal palpation were used to select the horses for this study.

Findings of the Research

• The results of the study showed a positive impact on the horses post-surgery. In particular, two horses experienced weight loss which responded to bypass removal.
• Importantly, the bypass surgery effectively reduced the need for recurrent invasive procedures like intravenous fluid administration and repeated nasogastric intubation.

Significance of the Research

• This research brings to light the potential of surgical bypasses in the treatment of small intestine obstructions in horses which are unresponsive to medical management. This has significant implications for veterinary medical practice, particularly for horses grappling with such health conditions.
• The reduction in the need for further invasive procedures post-surgery underscores the effectiveness of this treatment option, enhancing the overall well-being of the horses.