## Overview Epiploic foramen entrapment is a form of small-intestinal strangulation in which a loop of intestine passes through the epiploic foramen and becomes incarcerated. It causes acute, severe colic with rapid deterioration and is a surgical emergency. Older horses and those that crib are at higher risk. ## Causes Anatomic passage of intestine through the foramen, facilitated by changes in intra-abdominal pressure or cribbing. ## Diagnosis Acute severe colic, nasogastric reflux, and findings at exploratory surgery. Ultrasound may show distended small intestine. ## Treatment Immediate surgical reduction and resection of compromised bowel if needed. Time is critical. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded. Survival depends on the length of strangulation and amount of bowel resected. ## Prevention None proven, though reducing cribbing may lower risk.
acute severe colic; nasogastric reflux; rapid deterioration; surgical emergency
## Overview Epiploic foramen entrapment is a form of small-intestinal strangulation in which a loop of intestine passes through the epiploic foramen and becomes incarcerated. It causes acute, severe colic with rapid deterioration and is a surgical emergency. Older horses and those that crib are at higher risk. ## Causes Anatomic passage of intestine through the foramen, facilitated by changes in intra-abdominal pressure or cribbing. ## Diagnosis Acute severe colic, nasogastric reflux, and findings at exploratory surgery. Ultrasound may show distended small intestine. ## Treatment Immediate surgical reduction and resection of compromised bowel if needed. Time is critical. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded. Survival depends on the length of strangulation and amount of bowel resected. ## Prevention None proven, though reducing cribbing may lower risk.
acute severe colic; nasogastric reflux; rapid deterioration; surgical emergency