Enteral fluid therapy in 108 horses with large colon impactions and dorsal displacements.

The research investigated the effectiveness of enteral fluid therapy (EFT) in treating horses with colic, particularly those with large colon impactions and dorsal displacements. This therapy was found to successfully resolve most of these cases, with minor effects on plasma biochemistry.

Research Methodology and Subjects

• The study involved 108 adult horses suffering from colic. Specifically, there were 78 horses with colon impaction and 30 with left dorsal colon displacement.
• The horses were administered with an isotonic electrolyte solution using a nasogastric tube. This was done at a rate of 8 to 10 liters every two hours until the horses showed no more clinical signs of colic.
• The progression of the illness in the horses was closely observed during this period. Furthermore, plasma biochemistry of the horses was evaluated at three stages: before the treatment, during the treatment, and after the treatment.

Key Findings

• Enteral fluid therapy was generally well received by the horses, with 102 out of 108 tolerating the therapy. The therapy was also largely effective, resolving 99% of colon impaction cases and 83% of displacement cases.
• The treatment generally took about 20.2 hours to effect, with an average standard deviation of 5.2 hours. On average, each horse was administered about 118.6 liters of fluid, with a standard deviation of 34.5 liters.
• Examination of the plasma biochemistry during the treatment showed no significant abnormalities for the most part. However, haemodilution, a condition wherein the blood becomes diluted, was mildly observed in 63 per cent of the horses. This effect was however mild and not considered of significant concern.

Significance of the Findings

• The research provides evidence of the effectiveness of enteral fluid therapy in treating horses with colic — specifically for large colon impactions and dorsal displacement. This offers a viable option for veterinarians treating such conditions.
• While the treatment leads to a mild haemodilution effect in a majority of horses, this is generally not considered a significant concern. This suggests that the therapy is safe for use, with minor side effects.