Removal of a fragmented nasogastric tube from the transverse colon of a horse undergoing exploratory celiotomy for colic

This report describes the clinical course and surgical findings of a 5-year-old Warmblood gelding referred for colic with a previous history of intermittent colic episodes, and gastric ulcers diagnosed by gastroscopy in the preceding months. The horse underwent medical treatment but remained painful and surgery was elected. The horse underwent an exploratory laparotomy during which an impaction was identified in the transverse colon that was associated with an approximately 1 metre segment of nasogastric tube. The foreign body was removed via an enterotomy in the left dorsal colon, and the horse recovered well from surgery. No complications were encountered post-operatively.     

latrogenic lipoid pneumonia in an adult horse

A 20-year-old gelding presented with a history of acute respiratory distress which began immediately after administration of a mineral oil and water mix, via nasogastric intubation, for treatment of suspected gastrointestinal dysfunction. An initial presumptive diagnosis of acute lipoid pneumonia was made; this was further supported by evidence of arterial hypoxaemia and oxygen desaturation on arterial blood gas analysis, ultrasonographic signs of bilateral ventral lung consolidation and a mixed bronchoalveolar-interstitial lung pattern seen on thoracic radiographs. Despite intensive supportive therapy the horse's condition continued to deteriorate and the decision was made for humane euthanasia. Gross necropsy findings supported the clinical diagnosis of lipoid pneumonia.     

Guttural pouch perforation caused during nasogastric intubation

A 19‐year‐old gelding presented with swelling of the pharyngeal region following evaluation for an episode of colic. Endoscopy, radiography and ultrasonography were utilised in diagnosis of a guttural pouch perforation, secondary to nasogastric intubation. Conservative treatment resulted in a fibrin seal over the perforation. Unfortunately, the horse succumbed to colitis and was subjected to euthanasia before resolution of the injury.     

SUCCESSFUL REMOVAL OF A TRACHEAL FOREIGN BODY SECONDARY TO NASOGASTRIC TUBE PLACEMENT IN A RABBIT (ORYCTOLAGUS CUNICULUS)

A 3-year-old spayed female rabbit developed chronic coughing and gagging after removal of a nasogastric tube placed for medical management of gastrointestinal stasis.  Radiographs revealed a tubular structure that appeared to be located in the proximal trachea.  The foreign body was removed using rigid tracheoscopy and determined to be the distal 15 cm of the nasogastric tube.  The rabbit was discharged the same day and the owner reported that its clinical signs completely resolved after removal of the foreign body.