Equine Colic NAVLE Guide: Types, Diagnosis, and Surgical Decision-Making
Colic is the number one cause of death in horses and one of the highest-yield equine topics on the NAVLE. The exam tests your ability to classify colic type, interpret diagnostic findings, choose appropriate analgesia, and—most critically—know when a horse needs to go to surgery. Get those surgical indicators down cold.
Classification: Medical vs Surgical Colic
Medical Colic
- Spasmodic colic — hyperperistalsis; responds to antispasmodics
- Impaction — pelvic flexure most common site; also cecal, right dorsal
- Sand colic — ventral “ocean waves” sound on auscultation
- Large colon displacement (many are medical)
- Gastric dilation (secondary to SI obstruction)
Generally: responds to analgesics, HR <60, no reflux, clear peritoneal fluid
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