Ileal intussusception in 16 young thoroughbreds.

This study outlines the treatment and outcomes of 16 cases of short-ileal-ileal intussusception, a digestive system obstruction, in young Thoroughbred horses. Out of the cases studied, 12 horses made a complete recovery, despite some experiencing post-operative abdominal pain and requiring a second surgery.

About Ileal Intussusception

• Intussusception is a serious condition where a part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part.
• This study specifically looks at ‘short-ileal-ileal intussusception’, which affects the ileum, the final section of the small intestine.
• This condition often results in chronic or intermittent abdominal pain in young Thoroughbred horses.

The Treatment Method

• The conditions in the horses observed were alleviated primarily through surgery (laparotomy).
• Only the intussusception was reduced in one horse during laparotomy, while another had a myotomy (muscle cutting) performed on the intussusception after it was reduced.
• For 11 horses, ileocaecal bypass anastomosis was performed. This surgery creates a new connection between the ileum and the caecum, bypassing the obstructed parts.

The Outcomes

• One horse was euthanized during the operation due to irreversible intestinal wall damage, and another because of intestinal rupture.
• A foal suffered a cardiac arrest after the intussusception was reduced.
• One horse was euthanized four months post-operation due to intractable abdominal pain caused by intestinal adhesions.
• Despite some horses experiencing post-operative abdominal pain and two requiring a second operation, 12 horses made a full recovery.