Colic. Volvulus and intestinal entanglement in a horse

What is volvulus and intestinal entanglement in a horse

Oseorotation of the intestine is the displacement of individual loops. Osteo-rotations have 3 forms:

• tangle,
• turn,
• etiology.

Entanglement results in obstruction of the horse’s intestines by closing the lumen of the intestine, as it is pulled over by another loop or the intestine wraps around the mesentery. The most common form of entanglement is torsion of the jejunum, which has a long mesentery, around adjacent loops or around the mesentery. Nodulation is most often observed in the same place. Volvulus leads to the closure of the intestinal lumen and the formation of obstruction due to the rotation of the intestine around the longitudinal axis. The most common volvulus occurs in the large colon of the horse. 

Causes of volvulus and intestinal entanglement in a horse

1. Violation of the sequence, rhythm and strength of intestinal contractions due to damage to nerve trunks, nodes and plexuses by parasites.
2. Sharp cooling of the horse’s body.
3. Violations of the feeding regime of the horse.
4. Sometimes – mechanical causes (falls, sharp turns and similar conditions that are accompanied by a sharp change in intra-abdominal pressure).
5. Tumors.

Symptoms of volvulus and intestinal entanglement in a horse

1. Great continuous restlessness of the horse.
2. There are no bowel movements, despite the urge.
3. Urinary retention.
4. The pulse is weak and frequent.
5. Shortness of breath chest type.
6. The mucous membranes are bluish and then pale.
7. The body temperature of the horse rises to 41 – 42 ° C.

Course and prognosis of volvulus and entanglement in the horse

Volvulus and entanglement of the intestines in a horse can last up to 3 days. The closer the displacement to the stomach, the worse the condition of the horse. A lethal outcome is possible both a few hours after the development of the disease, and by the end of 2 days. If a volvulus of the large or small colon has occurred, the disease can last up to 5 days. Unfortunately, most often the prognosis is unfavorable. But there are rare cases of self-healing in the case of rectification of the intestine.

Treatment of volvulus and entanglement in the horse

The use of conservative treatment for bloat and entanglement may cause a temporary improvement in the horse’s condition, but no more. If conditions are right, surgery is performed.

Prevention of volvulus and intestinal entanglement in the horse

1. Timely deworming.
2. Compliance with the feeding regime.
3. Proper maintenance and organization of the horse.