## Overview Gastric impaction is accumulation of solid feed material in the stomach that fails to empty normally. It causes chronic or intermittent low-grade colic, reduced appetite, and weight loss. Reflux may be minimal because the material is too solid to siphon. Friesians appear predisposed. ## Causes Poor gastric motility, ingestion of poorly digestible material, dental disease, or underlying pyloric or duodenal obstruction. ## Diagnosis Gastroscopy showing a large mass of impacted feed, and ultrasound demonstrating an enlarged stomach. Response to treatment supports the diagnosis. ## Treatment Repeated gastric lavage. Administration of cola via nasogastric tube has been associated with improved resolution and survival in recent studies. Address any underlying motility or outflow problem. Surgery is rarely indicated. ## Recovery and Prognosis Historically poor, but recent data show better survival (over 50 percent overall, higher with cola treatment). Chronic cases can recur. ## Prevention Appropriate forage, dental care, and management of predisposed breeds.
chronic low-grade colic; anorexia; weight loss; large stomach on ultrasound; minimal nasogastric reflux
## Overview Gastric impaction is accumulation of solid feed material in the stomach that fails to empty normally. It causes chronic or intermittent low-grade colic, reduced appetite, and weight loss. Reflux may be minimal because the material is too solid to siphon. Friesians appear predisposed. ## Causes Poor gastric motility, ingestion of poorly digestible material, dental disease, or underlying pyloric or duodenal obstruction. ## Diagnosis Gastroscopy showing a large mass of impacted feed, and ultrasound demonstrating an enlarged stomach. Response to treatment supports the diagnosis. ## Treatment Repeated gastric lavage. Administration of cola via nasogastric tube has been associated with improved resolution and survival in recent studies. Address any underlying motility or outflow problem. Surgery is rarely indicated. ## Recovery and Prognosis Historically poor, but recent data show better survival (over 50 percent overall, higher with cola treatment). Chronic cases can recur. ## Prevention Appropriate forage, dental care, and management of predisposed breeds.
chronic low-grade colic; anorexia; weight loss; large stomach on ultrasound; minimal nasogastric reflux