## Overview Gastric rupture is a catastrophic tear of the stomach wall, usually from severe distension (impaction, outflow obstruction, or grain overload). Horses often show acute severe colic followed by sudden apparent improvement as the stomach decompresses into the abdomen, then rapid shock and death from peritonitis. ## Causes Over-distension from impaction, grain engorgement, or ileus. ## Diagnosis Clinical progression from severe pain to sudden quietness with cardiovascular collapse. Abdominocentesis yields feed-contaminated fluid. Most cases are confirmed at necropsy. ## Treatment None effective once rupture has occurred. Euthanasia is indicated. Prevention of rupture by relieving gastric distension is the only intervention. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fatal. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of colic and gastric distension; secure grain storage.
acute severe colic followed by sudden quietness; rapid cardiovascular collapse; peritonitis; death within hours
## Overview Gastric rupture is a catastrophic tear of the stomach wall, usually from severe distension (impaction, outflow obstruction, or grain overload). Horses often show acute severe colic followed by sudden apparent improvement as the stomach decompresses into the abdomen, then rapid shock and death from peritonitis. ## Causes Over-distension from impaction, grain engorgement, or ileus. ## Diagnosis Clinical progression from severe pain to sudden quietness with cardiovascular collapse. Abdominocentesis yields feed-contaminated fluid. Most cases are confirmed at necropsy. ## Treatment None effective once rupture has occurred. Euthanasia is indicated. Prevention of rupture by relieving gastric distension is the only intervention. ## Recovery and Prognosis Fatal. ## Prevention Prompt treatment of colic and gastric distension; secure grain storage.
acute severe colic followed by sudden quietness; rapid cardiovascular collapse; peritonitis; death within hours