Colic: when should I refer this horse? (Proceedings)

Deciding when to refer a horse with colic can be a difficult decision and involves careful evaluation of clinical and laboratory parameters, surgical considerations, probability of survival, and other considerations that include worsening of clinical condition, unresolved pain, or to obtain a second opinion. The decision to refer also involves the willingness of the client to transport the horse and financial constraints, as referral can be a substantial economic investment for the client.

The most common reason for a veterinarian to refer a horse with colic is the presence of a surgical lesion. Certain clinical and laboratory parameters are important in making this decision. However, the other obligation that the referral veterinarian has is to determine if the horse has a reasonable probability of survival if transported. A careful and thorough examination of the horse and selected laboratory parameters can give the veterinarian important information regarding whether the horse should be referred for surgery and what are the chances that that horse will survive. This presentation is based on the following references.

Evaluation of clinical and laboratory parameters

Making a decision to refer for surgery

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Making a determination of survival

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Other reasons for referral

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References

Reeves MJ, Curtis CR, Salman MD, et al. A multivariable prognostic model for equine colic patients. Prev Vet Med 9:241-257, 1990.

Reeves MJ, Curtis CR, Salman MD, et al. Multivariable prediction model for the need for surgery in horses with colic. Am J Vet Res 52(11): 1903-1907, 1991.

Van der Linden, MA, Laffont CM, and van Oldruitenborgh-Oosterbaan, MMS. Prognosis in equine medical and surgical colic. J Vet Intern Med 17:343-348, 2003.

White NA. Equine Colic: How to make the decision for surgery. In Proceedings: AAEP Focus Equine Colic. Quebec City, Canada. 2005, 119-128.