title: Metabolic management of the horse with an acute abdominal crisis.
abstract: The horse with an abdominal crisis caused by acute gastro-intestinal tract obstruction develops hypovolaemia, haemoconcentration, electrolyte depletion, metabolic acidosis and shock. During preparation for operation, treatment with fluids, antibiotics and bicarbonate will impede metabolic imbalance. Stomach decompression may slow the passage of sodium, water and potassium to the gut lumen, reduce pain and minimize the risk of stomach rupture. Selected laboratory determinations and the monitoring of arterial and venous pressures will provide a measure of security, and serve as a guide to replacement therapy. In the post-surgical period, vigilance must be directed towards potassium and bicarbonate imbalance and adequate hydration.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001639:Bicarbonates / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002245:Carbon Dioxide / Q000097:blood; D003085:Colic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D006734:Horse Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D006736:Horses; D007019:Hypoproteinemia / Q000662:veterinary; D007263:Infusions, Parenteral / Q000009:adverse effects; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal / Q000662:veterinary; D010100:Oxygen / Q000097:blood; D011182:Postoperative Care; D014991:Xylazine / Q000627:therapeutic use
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D001639:Bicarbonates; D002245:Carbon Dioxide; D014991:Xylazine; D010100:Oxygen