## Overview Nephrosplenic entrapment, also called left dorsal displacement of the colon, occurs when the left large colon moves up and becomes trapped over the nephrosplenic ligament between the left kidney and spleen. It causes mild to moderate intermittent colic. The spleen is displaced medially, and gas-distended colon is seen on ultrasound. It accounts for a significant percentage of colic cases, especially in larger, deep-chested horses. ## Causes Gas distension allowing the colon to migrate into the nephrosplenic space. ## Diagnosis Rectal palpation and ultrasound showing the displaced colon and medially positioned spleen. ## Treatment Many cases resolve with medical management (phenylephrine, exercise, or rolling under anesthesia). Surgery is used when medical treatment fails. Prognosis is excellent. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent. Over 90 percent recover with appropriate treatment. ## Prevention Management practices that reduce gas colic. Some horses undergo prophylactic procedures if recurrent.
mild to moderate intermittent colic; reduced gut sounds on the left; spleen displaced medially; gas-distended colon on ultrasound
## Overview Nephrosplenic entrapment, also called left dorsal displacement of the colon, occurs when the left large colon moves up and becomes trapped over the nephrosplenic ligament between the left kidney and spleen. It causes mild to moderate intermittent colic. The spleen is displaced medially, and gas-distended colon is seen on ultrasound. It accounts for a significant percentage of colic cases, especially in larger, deep-chested horses. ## Causes Gas distension allowing the colon to migrate into the nephrosplenic space. ## Diagnosis Rectal palpation and ultrasound showing the displaced colon and medially positioned spleen. ## Treatment Many cases resolve with medical management (phenylephrine, exercise, or rolling under anesthesia). Surgery is used when medical treatment fails. Prognosis is excellent. ## Recovery and Prognosis Excellent. Over 90 percent recover with appropriate treatment. ## Prevention Management practices that reduce gas colic. Some horses undergo prophylactic procedures if recurrent.
mild to moderate intermittent colic; reduced gut sounds on the left; spleen displaced medially; gas-distended colon on ultrasound