Gastrointestinal ultrasonography in normal adult ponies.

This study aims to understand the ultrasonic characteristics of the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, cecum, and peritoneal fluid in normal adult ponies. It found that wall thickness, contractility, distention, and luminal contents can all be examined and recorded. The results suggest that ponies might have increased duodenal contractility than horses and their body shape may influence the imaging locations for the stomach.

Study Objective and Methodology

• The aim of this research was to establish the normal ultrasonographic features of the gastrointestinal track including the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, cecum, and peritoneal fluid in adult ponies.
• To achieve this, abdominal ultrasonographic examinations were conducted on nine ponies in a standing position without sedation.
• Three sites on the duodenum and twelve regions of the jejunum were scrutinized during this process.
• Various aspects such as wall thickness, contractility, distention, and luminal contents were accurately recorded for each segment of the gastrointestinal tract.

Key Findings of the Study

• The study found that wall thicknesses were 0.431 cm for the stomach, 0.188 cm for the duodenum, 0.195 cm for the jejunum, and 0.179 cm for the cecum.
• The study also revealed that the duodenal contractions per minute were 3.78.
• The stomach spanned across 5.14 intercostal spaces, with the 8th intercostal spot being the most cranial and the 15th intercostal space being the most caudal in which the stomach was identified.
• It was discovered that the jejunum in all ponies could be identified dorsal to the left dorsal colon and from the ventral abdominal wall.
• Peritoneal fluid was found in six ponies, usually seen transiently and most commonly in the ventral aspect of the abdominal cavity or around the duodenum.

Conclusion and Implications

• The ultrasonographic examinations revealed that wall thicknesses for ponies were less than the normal ranges published for horses.
• This suggests that ponies may have a higher level of duodenal contractility compared to horses and that a pony’s body shape could affect the optimal locations for imaging the stomach.
• Therefore, this study has potential implications for veterinary practice, as it provides novel insights into the ultrasonographic examination of ponies, which may help in early diagnosis and more effective treatment of any issues in the future.