Pathology of the Small Intestine: Motility Dysfunction (Ileus) (16-Dec-2003)

Definition and Incidence Motility dysfunction is often termed ileus which is defined as the impairment of aboral transit of gastrointestinal (GI) contents. The term has been used in several different ways in the equine literature. It has sometimes been used very broadly and included both functional and mechanical obstructions whereas in other reports it’s use has been limited to functional impairment of GI transit. The author will restrict his use of the term to the more specific definition of the term, a functional obstruction (adynamic ileus) of aboral GI transit. Ileus is one of the most commonly encountered complications of equine gastrointestinal surgery. In horses, postoperative ileus (POI) occurs predominantly after correction of lesions involving the small intestine. POI may also be seen after correction of ascending colon lesions, primarily large colon volvulus. Traumatic handling of the intestine, intestinal distention, resection and anastomosis, and intestinal ischemia may contribute to ileus in these cases. Other conditions that have been associated with ileus are anterior enteritis, peritonitis, electrolyte imbalances, endotoxemia, and anesthesia. In a recent report, POI developed in 21% of horses undergoing surgical treatment of colic, and 13% of these cases died [1]. Although our management of these cases has improved, postoperative ileus is still associated with 40% of all postoperative deaths in horses with colic [1].