Indications, surgical technique, and long-term experience with laparoscopic closure of the nephrosplenic space in standing horses.

Objective: To describe surgical technique and outcome after laparoscopic closure of the nephrosplenic space for treatment of recurrent left dorsal displacement of the left colon (LDDLC) in standing horses.

Study Design: Retrospective study.

Animals: Forty-four horses with LDDLC.

Methods: Laparoscopic portals were located in the left flank region. After administration of etilefrin intravenously to contract the spleen, the dorsal splenic margin was sutured to the nephrosplenic ligament to obliterate the nephrosplenic space. Horses were re-examined (< or = 3 years) for history of recurrence. In addition, medical records of 4,852 horses treated for colic over 16 years were evaluated to establish incidence of LDDLC and recurrence after treatment.

Results: Splenic contraction facilitated suture placement and closure of the nephrosplenic space was achieved without complications. LDDLC recurrence did not occur although 5 horses had subsequent episodes of colic; 4 horses had displacement of the ascending colon between the spleen and body wall. Review of medical records revealed an incidence of LDDLC of 6% and recurrence of 21% in a population of horses with signs of colic.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic closure of the nephrosplenic space, facilitated by etilefrin-induced splenic contraction can be efficiently performed in standing horses.

Clinical Relevance: Laparoscopic ablation of the nephrosplenic space should be considered in horses that are predisposed to recurrent LDDLC.