Management of the surgical equine colic patient following hospital discharge

Abstract

Surgical treatment is required in around nine per cent of equine colic cases seen in first opinion practice. Veterinary practitioners play an important role in the early diagnosis of these cases and in the care of these horses following hospital discharge. This article discusses the management of the colic patient in the postoperative period and outlines possible complications, with a particular focus on the identification and management of complications that may occur immediately after hospital discharge. It also discusses measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of recurrence of colic in these cases.