The Veterinarian’s Examination of a Horse with Colic
The Veterinarian’s Examination of a Horse with Colic
Type of Procedure | Why It is Done |
|---|---|
Assessment of breathing and heart rate | Increased heart rate can indicate pain, dehydration, or low blood pressure. Increased breathing rate can indicate pain, fever, decrease in blood pH, or an underlying respiratory problem. |
Examination of mucous membranes (soft tissues inside of mouth) | Paleness or blueish tinge indicates poor oxygen level in blood; dryness indicates dehydration; grey discoloration indicates poor blood flow in the tissues; red discoloration can indicate shock. |
Insertion of tube through nose into stomach | Because horses cannot vomit, the tube can allow release of gas or fluid that would otherwise result in stomach rupture. For this reason, passing a stomach tube may save the horse’s life in addition to helping the veterinarian diagnose the condition causing the colic. |
Listening to various parts of the abdomen with a stethoscope | Sounds may indicate the presence of fluid, gas, impending diarrhea, and/or obstruction. Lack of sounds may indicate impaired motility or blood flow. |
Sample of abdominal (peritoneal) fluid via needle | Composition (protein and white blood cells) can reveal extent of intestinal damage. |
Rectal examination | Critical component of the exam that allows the veterinarian to feel the intestines, their position, and their content. |
Ultrasonography | Provides a view of certain abdominal organs, including the intestines. Some conditions (such as an inguinal hernia or an intussusception) may be seen. |