[Establishment of a re-entrant ileo-cecal fistula in Equidae].

This research focuses on the creation of a re-entrant cannulation, a type of surgical technique, in the digestive tract of Equidae (ponies and donkeys). The cannulation was done between the lower part of the ileum, a part of the small intestine, and the start of the caecum, the first section of the large intestine. This particular methodology was developed to avoid any risk of infection to the peritoneal cavity, the space within the abdomen that contains the intestines, stomach, and liver. This research can offer a valuable model for studies on digestion in Equidae, particularly in determining pre-caecal digestibility, or how much of a substance is broken down and absorbed before it reaches the caecum.

Operative Technique

• The operative technique discussed in this study involves the creation of a re-entrant cannula, or a tube, which connects the lower part of the ileum and the beginning of the caecum in Equidae, a family that includes ponies and donkeys. This is a surgical procedure that forms a direct path between these two parts of the digestive tract.
• This method was designed to minimize the risk of infection in the peritoneal cavity, a major concern in any abdominal surgery. In order to achieve this, the surgical incision in the abdominal wall was closed before the ileum and caecum were opened.
• The study does not mention any complications, indicating that this surgical procedure was safely executed. It is further confirmed by the survival of two donkeys ten months post-surgery.

Significance of the Study

• This technique can provide a useful model for conduct of various studies related to the digestion process in Equidae, especially in understanding the pre-caecal digestibility. This refers to the extent of nutrient breakdown and absorption occurring before the food reaches the caecum from the small intestine.
• As the process of digestion in Equidae involves the breakdown and absorption of nutrients at various stages, the ability to directly access and assess pre-caecal digestion can contribute to better understanding of the digestive efficiency in these animals. This insight can be particularly useful in developing more effective feeding programs for horses and similar species, and can have considerable implications for their health and performance.