Short- and Long-Term Outcomes in Horses Following Laparoscopic Nephrosplenic Space Ablation

Left dorsal displacement of the large colon is a frequent cause of colic in horses. It can recur, limiting performance and increasing costs and management demands for owners. We evaluated a minimally invasive surgical procedure that closes the space between the spleen and the left kidney to reduce the risk of the colon becoming trapped. We reviewed 48 horses treated in two Italian Veterinary Teaching Hospitals and followed them for up to nine years. Most horses were discharged without early complications, and most were still alive at the last follow-up. About one in three horses had colic episodes after discharge; most often this was suspected to be a recurrence of left dorsal displacement, and only a small proportion required abdominal surgery. Most horses returned to athletic or breeding activity, and most owners reported a positive outcome. Our results support this laparoscopic preventive procedure as a safe option that can help maintain long-term function and welfare. It can also provide reassurance to owners, although some colic episodes may still occur and require monitoring