Retrospective evaluation of the effect of intravenous fluid administration on development of postoperative reflux in horses with colic (2004-2012): 194 horses.

This research study retrospectively evaluates the effect of intravenous (IV) fluid administration on the occurrence of postoperative reflux in horses with colic. The findings suggest that the volume and electrolyte balance of IV fluids are not contributing factors to postoperative reflux development. However, the research emphasizes the importance of closely monitoring and correcting pre- and postoperative fluid deficits.

Study Methodology

• The research was conducted as a case-control study from 2004 to 2012 at a University teaching hospital.
• 67 horses that had developed postoperative reflux (POR), all above one year old, were included.
• Each of these horses were matched with two control horses that underwent similar surgical procedures but did not develop POR.

Key Findings

• Survival rates were significantly lower in horses that developed POR (at 65.7%) compared to control horses (at 96.1%).
• The development of POR was associated with a decrease in the net volume of fluids administered on the first day after surgery, performing a resection and anastomosis, and increased age.
• The average time until the onset of POR was around 20.4 hours postoperatively.
• Packed Cell Volume (PCV) was significantly higher immediately after surgery and 24 hours postoperatively in horses that developed POR compared to matched controls.
• There was no link found between electrolyte values at admission or administration of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in the postoperative period and the subsequent development of reflux.

Conclusions

• Contrary to what might be expected, this study concluded that neither the overload of IV fluid volume nor electrolyte abnormalities contributed to the development of POR in the observed population of surgical colic patients.
• However, the researchers recommend vigilant postoperative monitoring to ensure that any pre- and postoperative fluid deficits are promptly identified and corrected.