Colic–Some bright views on the horizon.

The article discusses the changes in the causes of colic and the survival rates in horses after abdominal surgery. It highlights that past significant causes of colic now occur less frequently, and reviews that the success rate of colic surgery has improved significantly. It cites advances in practice, including early recognition and surgery, as well as improvements in post-surgery care for horses, as the reasons for the improvement. However, it also mentions that colic remains a prevalent and serious issue in horses.

Changes in Causes of Colic

• The research article begins by pointing out how the causes of colic have changed over time. Earlier, the migration of Strongylus vulgaris larvae was a common cause of this condition in horses, but it is now a rare diagnosis.
• This change has been attributed to the development of new de-worming medications, such as ivermectin, and improved de-worming practices. As a result, there has been a drop in the number of non-strangulating infarctions caused by verminous arteritis.

Improvements in Colic Surgery

• Colic surgery, which was once associated with poor prognosis, is now performed routinely at many hospitals and clinics, resulting in a better outcome for the horses.
• Survival rates for surgeries involving small intestine lesions, which were about 30 to 40% in the 1980s, have increased to 60 to 70% in the 1990s.
• Prognosis for colon torsions has also improved when promptly referred for surgical intervention.

Contributing Factors to Improved Outcomes

• The article terms client education, early recognition of surgical candidates and referrals to surgical facilities as major contributors to the improved outcomes.
• The advancements in surgical techniques and intensive post-surgery care for horses have proved vital too. These include the treatment for endotoxemia, prevention of adhesions, use of parenteral nutrition, and the routine correction of fluid, electrolytes and metabolic disturbances.

Current Scenario

• Despite the reported progress, colic remains a very common issue with an important economic impact. It is still the leading cause of death due to abdominal conditions in horses.
• The article emphasizes the importance of comprehensive epidemiological studies, which include various factors such as the type of colic, breed, age group and geographical location. Such studies can provide valuable insights and recommendations for preventing colic.
• It also mentions that many of the risk factors identified are related to changes brought about by captivity and domestication, like different feeding practices, enforced exercise routines, and confinement. Therefore, modifications such as diet changes, regular deworming and adapting horse’s environment could potentially reduce colic incidence.
• The use of new diagnostic techniques is also highlighted. These techniques can help identify horses at risk of developing colic, diagnose gastric ulcers, detect parasite presence, and evaluate the efficacy of anthelmintics.