Current treatment of ascending colon volvulus in horses: a survey of ACVS Diplomates.

This research article reports on a survey conducted among veterinarians about the current approaches and estimated outcomes of surgeries for a common horse ailment, ascending colon volvulus. The study also highlights the importance of early surgical intervention in improving the survival rates of affected horses.

Methodology and Participant Demographics

• The research was conducted with the help of a web-based survey.
• Participants in the study were American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) Diplomates who perform gastrointestinal surgery in horses.
• The Diplomates had credentials in large animal specialty and those who cleared their examinations in 2010 or earlier were invited to take part in the survey.
• A total of 162 Diplomates responded to the survey, out of which 151 currently performed gastrointestinal surgery in horses.

Ascension Colon Volvulus and Its Treatment

• Ascension colon volvulus is a gastrointestinal issue in horses wherein the colon twists around itself leading to obstruction. It requires surgical intervention for effective management.
• The maximum number of cases involving ascending colon volvulus surgical treatment accounted for 20 cases per year per Diplomates.
• The primary treatment approach was most often ‘anatomic reduction’, which involves the untwisting of the volvulus and placing it back in the correct anatomic position. This might also be combined with a ‘pelvic flexure enterotomy’, a surgical process of creating an opening in the pelvic flexure part of the colon.

Survey Results & Conclusions

• The median estimated survival rate for horses post-surgery was found to be 70%, suggesting a relatively positive outcome with surgical intervention.
• Surgical treatments were not found to have a significant correlation with the estimated survival rate of the creature.
• The most important factor, according to the Diplomates, that influences the survival of horses post-surgery for ascending colon volvulus was early surgical correction.
• The findings of the research suggest a generally positive survival rate for horses treated for ascending colon volvulus, potentially due to timely surgery.
• The study also highlighted the utility of survey investigations in providing preliminary data for more detailed, future research and developing a consensus among Veterinary Surgeons about the treatment of surgical diseases.