Medical management of large colon obstruction in the horse

Obstructions of the large colon are relatively common causes of colic in the horse. Diagnosis involves establishing what type of obstruction is present in order to decide whether medical therapy is appropriate or if exploratory laparotomy is indicated. Strangulating obstructions cannot be managed medically and require surgical intervention. This article discusses the medical management of non-strangulating obstructions in horses, and highlights situations where surgery might need to be considered.