## Overview Cecal impaction is accumulation of ingesta within the cecum that fails to empty normally. It is less common than large-colon impaction but carries a higher risk of rupture because the cecum has a relatively thin wall and subtle early signs. A recent illness or surgical procedure is the most common history; dehydration and tapeworm infection may also contribute. ## Causes Dehydration, reduced motility after surgery or systemic illness, high-tapeworm burdens at the ileocecal junction, and abrupt dietary changes are the main causes. Solid-filled and fluid-filled forms are recognized. ## Diagnosis Mild or intermittent colic, reduced manure output, and an enlarged, firm cecum on rectal palpation are characteristic. Horses may show surprisingly little pain until rupture is imminent. Ultrasound and bloodwork support the diagnosis. ## Treatment Aggressive intravenous fluid therapy, analgesics, and prokinetics are the mainstay for solid impactions. Fluid-filled (dysfunctional) impactions may require different motility management. Surgery is indicated when medical therapy fails or rupture is suspected. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is fair with early recognition and treatment but becomes poor once mural compromise or rupture occurs. Mortality rates of 25 to 57 percent have been reported in some series. ## Prevention Constant access to fresh water, gradual diet changes, strategic deworming for tapeworms, and careful monitoring of postoperative manure output reduce risk.
mild to moderate colic; reduced manure output; enlarged cecum on rectal examination; depression; elevated heart rate in advanced cases
## Overview Cecal impaction is accumulation of ingesta within the cecum that fails to empty normally. It is less common than large-colon impaction but carries a higher risk of rupture because the cecum has a relatively thin wall and subtle early signs. A recent illness or surgical procedure is the most common history; dehydration and tapeworm infection may also contribute. ## Causes Dehydration, reduced motility after surgery or systemic illness, high-tapeworm burdens at the ileocecal junction, and abrupt dietary changes are the main causes. Solid-filled and fluid-filled forms are recognized. ## Diagnosis Mild or intermittent colic, reduced manure output, and an enlarged, firm cecum on rectal palpation are characteristic. Horses may show surprisingly little pain until rupture is imminent. Ultrasound and bloodwork support the diagnosis. ## Treatment Aggressive intravenous fluid therapy, analgesics, and prokinetics are the mainstay for solid impactions. Fluid-filled (dysfunctional) impactions may require different motility management. Surgery is indicated when medical therapy fails or rupture is suspected. ## Recovery and Prognosis Prognosis is fair with early recognition and treatment but becomes poor once mural compromise or rupture occurs. Mortality rates of 25 to 57 percent have been reported in some series. ## Prevention Constant access to fresh water, gradual diet changes, strategic deworming for tapeworms, and careful monitoring of postoperative manure output reduce risk.
mild to moderate colic; reduced manure output; enlarged cecum on rectal examination; depression; elevated heart rate in advanced cases