Colon resection and anastomosis as treatment of an idiopathic colo-colic intussusception in an adult horse

Abstract

An 18-year-old Thoroughbred gelding was referred for further investigation and treatment of acute colic. Exploratory celiotomy was recommended based on the degree of suspected large colon distension on rectal palpation, and only transient reprieve from colic signs following analgesia. This subsequently revealed an intussusception affecting the left dorsal colon (LDC) with the orad LDC (intussusceptum) within the aborad LDC (intussuscipiens). The intussusception, approximately 20 cm in length, was obstructing the colon. Following exteriorisation, reduction of the intussusception was performed, but marked thickening of the colon wall and luminal obstruction led to the decision to perform a partial colon resection of the left dorsal and ventral colon and side-to-side anastomosis. The gelding made an unremarkable recovery from anaesthesia and progressed well post-operatively. Histopathology found no clear cause of the intussusception. Follow-up (11 months post-operatively) confirmed complete recovery and the horse had returned to the previous level of light exercise.