## Overview Ileal impaction is obstruction of the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) by a solid mass of feed. It is more common in the southeastern United States and is strongly associated with coastal Bermuda grass hay. Horses show moderate to severe colic that often responds only temporarily to pain medication, with small-intestinal distension on ultrasound and reduced manure output. ## Causes Ingestion of coastal Bermuda or poor-quality hay, sudden diet changes, dental disease, tapeworms, or reduced water intake. Narrowing of the ileum from any cause also predisposes. ## Diagnosis History (especially Bermuda hay), rectal examination, abdominal ultrasound showing distended small intestine, and response to treatment. Surgery confirms some cases. ## Treatment Medical management with fluids, analgesics, and lubricants succeeds in many horses. Surgery is required if pain is uncontrollable or the impaction does not resolve. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with timely medical or surgical treatment. Delayed cases risk bowel damage. ## Prevention Gradual introduction of Bermuda hay, dental care, deworming, and adequate water.
moderate to severe colic; small-intestinal distension on ultrasound; decreased fecal output; temporary response to pain medication
## Overview Ileal impaction is obstruction of the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) by a solid mass of feed. It is more common in the southeastern United States and is strongly associated with coastal Bermuda grass hay. Horses show moderate to severe colic that often responds only temporarily to pain medication, with small-intestinal distension on ultrasound and reduced manure output. ## Causes Ingestion of coastal Bermuda or poor-quality hay, sudden diet changes, dental disease, tapeworms, or reduced water intake. Narrowing of the ileum from any cause also predisposes. ## Diagnosis History (especially Bermuda hay), rectal examination, abdominal ultrasound showing distended small intestine, and response to treatment. Surgery confirms some cases. ## Treatment Medical management with fluids, analgesics, and lubricants succeeds in many horses. Surgery is required if pain is uncontrollable or the impaction does not resolve. ## Recovery and Prognosis Good with timely medical or surgical treatment. Delayed cases risk bowel damage. ## Prevention Gradual introduction of Bermuda hay, dental care, deworming, and adequate water.
moderate to severe colic; small-intestinal distension on ultrasound; decreased fecal output; temporary response to pain medication