Evaluation of long‐term postoperative morbidity and survival after equine colic surgery using a complication severity classification

Abstract

Abstract Background Most studies on colic surgery outcome focus on short‐term survival and complications. Long‐term outcomes, particularly post‐discharge morbidity, are poorly characterised despite their relevance. No standardised system has previously integrated both short‐ and long‐term postoperative complications with survival outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate long‐term survival and morbidity in horses after colic surgery using the equine postoperative complication score (EPOCS), and to assess the association between complications and survival. Methods The medical records of horses undergoing colic surgery between January 2017 and March 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Long‐term follow‐up (≥4 years) was obtained via telephone. Complications were scored using the EPOCS. Results Of the 244 horses undergoing surgery, 203 were discharged, and 176 were successfully followed up. Post‐discharge complications occurred in 44.8%, with colic being the most common. Pre‐discharge EPOCS was negatively correlated with long‐term survival ( r = –0.25, 95% confidence interval [CI]: –0.40 to 0.09, p = 0.002). Total EPOCS was also inversely associated with survival ( r = –0.19, 95% CI: –0.35 to –0.02, p = 0.02). Post‐discharge EPOCS was not associated with survival. Lesion type, intestinal segment and resection did not significantly affect survival. Limitations The retrospective design, owner‐reported follow‐up and single‐centre data limit generalisability and underrepresent minor complications. Conclusions Long‐term survival in horses with colic is favourable; however, postoperative complications are common and prognostically relevant. EPOCS provides a structured method for quantifying morbidity and may support future comparisons between surgical techniques and management strategies.