## Overview Colonic displacement is abnormal positioning of the large colon within the abdomen. The main forms are left dorsal displacement (nephrosplenic entrapment), right dorsal displacement, and large colon volvulus. Volvulus is a surgical emergency because it rapidly compromises blood supply. ## Causes Gas accumulation, changes in motility, and anatomic factors allow the mobile large colon to move out of position. Risk factors include recent transport, changes in exercise, and, for volvulus, being a broodmare. ## Diagnosis Colic signs of variable severity, reduced manure, and findings on rectal palpation or ultrasound. Volvulus produces rapid systemic deterioration. ## Treatment Left dorsal displacement may respond to medical management or rolling under anesthesia. Right dorsal displacement and volvulus usually require surgery. Aggressive fluid and supportive care are essential. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for uncomplicated displacements treated promptly. Volvulus carries significant mortality even with surgery. ## Prevention Consistent feeding and exercise routines; prompt attention to early colic signs.
colic of variable severity; reduced manure output; abdominal distension; elevated heart rate; rapid deterioration in volvulus
## Overview Colonic displacement is abnormal positioning of the large colon within the abdomen. The main forms are left dorsal displacement (nephrosplenic entrapment), right dorsal displacement, and large colon volvulus. Volvulus is a surgical emergency because it rapidly compromises blood supply. ## Causes Gas accumulation, changes in motility, and anatomic factors allow the mobile large colon to move out of position. Risk factors include recent transport, changes in exercise, and, for volvulus, being a broodmare. ## Diagnosis Colic signs of variable severity, reduced manure, and findings on rectal palpation or ultrasound. Volvulus produces rapid systemic deterioration. ## Treatment Left dorsal displacement may respond to medical management or rolling under anesthesia. Right dorsal displacement and volvulus usually require surgery. Aggressive fluid and supportive care are essential. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good for uncomplicated displacements treated promptly. Volvulus carries significant mortality even with surgery. ## Prevention Consistent feeding and exercise routines; prompt attention to early colic signs.
colic of variable severity; reduced manure output; abdominal distension; elevated heart rate; rapid deterioration in volvulus