34th Annual Scientific Meeting proceedings

Objectives:

The aim of the study is to describe l a laparoscopic diagnosis of a small intestinal neoplasia, transitioned into standing flank laparotomy for removal of the affected small intestinal portion

Methods:

A 15-year-old QH Gelding, with recurrent colic episodes in the past month, was referred to the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. The horse showed mild colic signs upon arrival and responded well to initial routine conservative management. Upon repeated ultrasonographic evaluation, a small intestinal mass was suspected. Standing flank laparoscopy was elected for further evaluation and potential resolution. A rounded mass attached to the mesenteric side of the jejunum was found. Small intestine with a thickened wall was attached to the mass with nearly complete obstruction of the lumen. A right flank laparotomy was then performed, and an approximately 40 cm long section of the jejunum, centred over the mass, was removed. The mass and attached intestinal portion were sent for histopathological evaluation

Results:

Histopathologic evaluation of the mass revealed the diagnosis  of an adenocarcinoma with clear margins of removal. The horse recovered well from surgery, the incision healed well and at follow up 3 years later, the horse was healthy with no recurrence of colic and no other complications.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of laparoscopic diagnosis of small intestinal neoplasia, transitioned into standing flank laparotomy for removal of the affected small intestinal portion. Standing laparotomy should be considered as a viable option for selective cases of small intestinal resection. Small intestinal adenocarcinoma may have a curative solution by resection and anastomosis.