Large colon resection.
Abstract: With large colon resection and anastomosis, up to 95 per cent of the length of the large colon has been successfully removed. A hand-sewn end-to-end anastomosis is effective for lesions in the left dorsal colon and pelvic flexure. Transection and a side-to-side anastomosis with stapling equipment is most effective for extensive resections (greater than 50 per cent). Horses with extensive colon resection (95 per cent) have permanent deficiencies of water absorption and digestion of cellulose and protein. Fermentative capacity is reduced, owing to decreased particulate matter retention time in the smaller capacity colon. These deficits are minimized with alfalfa hay as the source of forage (fed at 2 per cent of the body weight), and normal blood variables and body weight can be maintained. Voluntary intake increases to help maintain a positive nutrient balance. Grass hay, owing to the higher cell wall content, is inadequate as the sole source of energy and protein, and weight loss will occur. Ad libitum intake of water is recommended at all times, owing to the increased fecal water loss.
Publication Date: 1989-08-01 PubMed ID: 2670114DOI: 10.1016/s0749-0739(17)30595-3Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary
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This research article discusses the surgical treatments available for horses with a condition called strangulating large colon volvulus, which is a serious issue that can lead to recurrence if not properly treated. The most aggressive treatment option, large colon resection, is proposed as a potential preventative measure for recurrence and an alternative to euthanasia in some cases.
Understanding the Medical Dilemma
- The medical issue at hand is strangulating large colon volvulus, a disorder in horses where the large colon twists on itself leading to tissue damage due to compromised blood flow.
- This disorder presents a significant dilemma to veterinary surgeons due to the difficulty in determining the extent of damaged tissue and deciding on the most suitable surgical intervention.
- The decision-making process is further complicated by a high recurrence rate, meaning the twisted colon has a strong tendency to repeat the issue even after surgical correction.
Analysis of Proposed Surgical Treatment Option
- The research investigates large colon resection and anastomosis, which involves removing the damaged portion of the colon and directly connecting the healthier sections.
- While this is the most aggressive treatment option, it is seen as an effective measure in preventing recurrence of the issue, as the compromised tissue is completely removed.
- In a situation where euthanasia might be the only other option, this surgical solution could potentially save the life of the horse.
Implications
- The outcomes of this research provide critical insights that can assist veterinary surgeons in making an informed decision when treating horses with strangulating large colon volvulus.
- The proposition of large colon resection and anastomosis as an alternative to euthanasia could potentially enhance the welfare of horses suffering from this condition and increase their chances of survival.
Cite This Article
APA
Bertone AL.
(1989).
Large colon resection.
Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract, 5(2), 377-393.
https://doi.org/10.1016/s0749-0739(17)30595-3 Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Baton Rouge.
MeSH Terms
- Anastomosis, Surgical / veterinary
- Animals
- Colectomy / veterinary
- Horses / surgery
- Postoperative Care / veterinary
- Prognosis
References
This article includes 36 references
Citations
This article has been cited 1 times.- Butt TD, Wilson DG. Laparoscopic colopexy in a horse. Can Vet J 2003 Jul;44(7):586-8.
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