NEPHROSPLENIC ENTRAPMENT

Definition: type of colic caused when the left dorsal colon becomes lodged between the spleen and the kidney, resting on the nephrosplenic ligament Signs: typically only mild or moderate pain, with signs that may include pawing, looking at the flanks, slight agitation and loss of appetite. The heart rate will be only slightly increased, and the mucous membranes will be normal. Diagnosis: A rectal palpation may distinguish a nephrosplenic entrapment from other causes of colic—the large colon will be distended, and the spleen will be shifted out of place. The condition may also be identified with an ultrasound examination. Treatment: A majority of horses respond to medication and light exercise to “jostle” the colon back into the correct position. Another approach is to place the horse under general anesthesia and physically roll and shake his body in an effort to dislodge the entrapment. If these efforts fail, surgery may be necessary to return the colon to its proper position. Unlike other colic surgeries, this type of entrapment can be addressed in a standing procedure with the horse conscious but under heavy sedation. Prognosis: Generally good. More than 95 percent of horses treated conservatively and 80 percent of those who undergo surgery make a full recovery.