Use of flank laparoscopy in the standing horse as a diagnostic aid in horses with chronic abdominal pain

Abstract

Background: Reaching a specific diagnosis in horses with chronic or recurrent abdominal pain may be challenging and elusive. Objectives: The aim of this study was to report indications, findings and outcomes of equine exploratory laparoscopy in a case series to support its diagnostic value and identify potential limitations. Study design: Retrospective cases series. Methods: Sixty-nine client-owned horses underwent laparoscopic exploration of the abdomen due to chronic colic symptoms. All horses were operated standing while sedated and under local anaesthesia. Diagnosis, follow-up, surgical or medical interventions, as well as intra- and postoperative complications were recorded. Results: A definitive diagnosis could be made by laparoscopy in 61 horses. However, no abnormal findings were found by laparoscopic exploration of the abdominal cavity in eight horses. Overall, the sensitivity of diagnostic laparoscopy in the standing horse in our study was 88% and its specificity was 15%. No severe intra- or postoperative complications occurred. Exploratory flank laparoscopy in the standing horse can be a valuable diagnostic tool for chronic abdominal pain.