Impaction of the Cecal Cupula in Seven Horses: Presentation, Treatment, and Prognosis

Cecal cupula impaction is uncommon in horses and has not been reported in the absence of impaction of the base of the cecum or hypertrophy of the cecal wall. Capula impaction can be managed successfully through a typhylotomy and cecal evacuation.

1. Introduction

Fecal cupula impaction has not been reported previously in the absence of impaction of the base of the cecum or hypertrophy of the cecal wall.

2. Objectives

To describe the presentation, treatment, and prognosis of a series of cases diagnosed with cecal cupula impaction.

3. Methods

Medical records were reviewed for all horses undergoing exploratory celiotomy between 2000 and 2010. Horses with cecal cupula impaction in the absence of any other surgical lesion accounting for clinical signs were selected for inclusion. The history, presenting clinical findings, diagnostics, surgical findings and treatment, postoperative care and complications, and survival to discharge were recorded from the medical records. Long-term follow-up was obtained by a telephone questionnaire. 

4. Results

Seven horses were diagnosed with a cecal cupula impaction at exploratory celiotomy. Although variable, horses generally presented with low-grade colic signs and nonspecific rectal findings but were systemically stable. All impactions were resolved via a typhylotomy and cecal lavage. All horses survived to discharge from the hospital, and long-term survival was excellent.

5. Conclusions

Cecal cupula impaction can occur in the absence of impaction of the body or apex of the cecum and gross hypertrophy of the cecal wall. The condition can be managed successfully through a typhylotomy and cecal evacuation. Horses have a good prognosis postoperatively.

6. Potential Relevance

Although uncommon, cecal cupula impaction can occur in horses. Surgical resolution of the condition carries an excellent prognosis.