Colic Surgery
General
We are currently not performing colic surgery.
What is colic? (Definition)
Refers to abdominal pain that often results from GI tract disease
Causes of pain
Distention (gas)
Twisting
Ischemia (lack of blood supply to the gut)
Inflammation
Incidence:
Colic is the number 2 cause of death in horses
Natural causes is number 1 cause of death in horses
Estimate incidence: 4.2 colics/100 horses/year
Overall cost of colic: A USDA Equine Study showed approximately $115 million in 1998
Signs of Colic
Nonspecific signs
Inappetance (lack of appetite)
Looking at side
Rolling lip
Stretching/ straining
Pawing
Lying down
Rolling
Violently thrashing
Indications for referral to surgical facility
Frequent monitoring
Second opinion
Intensive medical management
E.g. Gastric reflux, IV fluids, medications
Patient is not responding to routine treatment
Pain not responsive
Analgesics & sedatives
Changes
Rectal exam
Physical examinations
Remote locations/No surgical facility in closer proximity
Surgery is required
What you need to do when referring your horse for colic treatment:
Inform situation & obtain permission for referral from owner or agent
General cost estimate (costs may vary)
Medical: $2,500-5,000
Surgical: $6,000-12,000
Be prepared to leave a deposit at admission
Inform of the procedures to expect upon arrival
The owner of the horse should contact their insurance company
Colic Surgery:
In general, uncomplicated surgeries that do not need bowel resection (bowel is not damaged)
Such as displacements, impactions, enteroliths (stones)
Carry a better prognosis for recovery and return to performance
They usually go home in 5-7days
CLICK HERE to read about Colic Prevention & learn 10 Tips for Preventing Colic
