Removal of a fragmented nasogastric tube from the transverse colon of a horse undergoing exploratory celiotomy for colic

Abstract

Summary This report describes the clinical course and surgical findings of a 5‐year‐old Warmblood gelding referred for colic with a previous history of intermittent colic episodes, and gastric ulcers diagnosed by gastroscopy in the preceding months. The horse underwent medical treatment but remained painful and surgery was elected. The horse underwent an exploratory laparotomy during which an impaction was identified in the transverse colon that was associated with an approximately 1 metre segment of nasogastric tube. The foreign body was removed via an enterotomy in the left dorsal colon, and the horse recovered well from surgery. No complications were encountered post‐operatively.