Uterine torsion associated with small intestinal incarceration in a mare at 126 days of gestation.

Abstract

A mare at 126 days of gestation was examined because of signs of abdominal pain. The cause of abdominal pain could not be determined by physical examination. Lack of response to analgesics and small intestinal distention on palpation per rectum prompted exploratory celiotomy. Small intestine was found to be entrapped by the uterus, which had undergone torsion. The uterus was returned to its correct position, and the small intestine was decompressed. After surgery, the mare was treated with orally administered progestin to prevent abortion. The mare recovered and delivered a live foal at 354 days of gestation. Uterine torsion at such an early stage of gestation is not common in horses.