[The problem with the occurrence of so-called spontaneous ruptures of the rectum in horses. 2: Forensic evaluation].

The research focuses on the problem of spontaneous ruptures in the rectum of horses, denoting the importance of careful rectal examination and suggesting guidelines for forensic evaluation in cases of ruptures.

Understanding the Structure of a Horse’s Rectum

• The paper first elaborates on the structure of the horse’s rectum. It mentions that the muscular coat, or tunica muscularis, is weakly developed in the roof of the wave-like rectum ampulla, which is the expanded part of the rectum. This underdevelopment means that it is an area of lesser resistance.
• Based on the degree of development of this muscular coat, the rectum ampulla can be categorized into two types. One is stable, with strong muscles, and the other is labile with weaker muscles.

Causes of Rectal Ruptures

• Ruptures of the intestinal wall in this region, as suggested by documented rupture-experiments and the frequent occurrence of diverticula (bulges or pouches in the wall of the rectum), pinpoint this area as a place of minor resistance. Notably, this demands extreme caution during rectal examinations.

Forensic Evaluation

• When a rectal perforation or rupture occurs, its forensic judgment must rely on detailed pathoanatomical investigations. These investigations should establish whether any standard veterinary procedures were overlooked or neglected.
• If the examination was carried out without overlooking any rules of veterinary art, it would be challenging for the examiner to prove blameless for the rupture.
• However, when a rupture is situated in the dorsal part of the rectum (the upper surface or back), it might be considered a spontaneous rupture. The possibility of spontaneous ruptures is also reinforced by additional conditions, like the thickness of the muscular coat or the presence of diverticula.

In essence, this research provides valuable insight into the cause of rectal ruptures in horses and guidelines on how to approach and evaluate such incidences from a forensic perspective.