🔍 Vet Facts 2025: Debunking the Top Myths About Equine Colic Surgery 🐴🔪

Author: Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

Few words strike more fear in horse owners than “colic surgery.” While it’s true this procedure is serious and requires specialty care, many of the fears surrounding it are based on myths. In this 2025 guide, Dr Duncan Houston addresses the most common misconceptions about colic surgery and presents the current veterinary facts you need to know. 🧠🐎

⚠️ Myth 1: "My Horse Is Too Old for Surgery"

Age alone isn’t a deal-breaker. Dr. Jacqueline Hill, DVM, Dipl. ACVS-LA, says:

• 🐴 Horses over 20 years old can recover just as well as those under 15
• 🧬 General health is more important than age

Only in horses over 30 with multiple health problems is age a major limiting factor. 🎂

🏇 Myth 2: "Horses Are Never the Same After Surgery"

This myth is outdated. One large-scale study analyzed over 200 colic surgery cases and found:

• ✅ 84% of horses returned to their previous discipline
• 🎯 79% performed at the same or even higher level after recovery

🛠️ Recovery Timeline:

• 📆 3 months of stall rest and limited activity
• 📈 3 more months of gradually increasing exercise

With proper rehab, performance horses can absolutely return to their sport. 🐎💪

🔪 Myth 3: "Intestinal Resection = Poor Outcome"

Sometimes part of the intestine must be removed during colic surgery. This is known as a resection. Outcomes vary depending on the intestinal region, but success rates are still solid:

• 🧬 65–75% success in horses needing resection
• 🔬 Some procedures are more complex, but not hopeless

Veterinary advances continue to improve these outcomes year after year. 🧪

🔁 Myth 4: "Once a Horse Has Colic Surgery, They’ll Colic Again"

While some horses may colic again post-surgery, studies show:

• 📉 Horses without a history of colic are not more likely to colic again
• 🧠 Proper management and nutrition reduce recurrence risks

This myth should never prevent a horse from receiving needed surgery. 💡

🧠 Dr Duncan Houston’s Insight

"Colic surgery isn’t a career-ender or a death sentence. With good post-op care and realistic expectations, many horses thrive after surgery." 🐴❤️

📋 Final Advice: Don’t Let Fear Decide

If your vet recommends colic surgery, know the facts:

• ✅ Age is not an automatic no
• 💪 Performance horses often return to form
• 🔬 Intestinal resection isn’t a death sentence
• ♻️ Colic recurrence isn’t guaranteed

Modern colic surgery is highly effective and safe when performed at qualified referral centers. 🎯

🔚 Final Word: Empower, Don’t Panic

Colic surgery is scary—but based on current research and real-world outcomes, it’s also life-saving and performance-preserving for many horses. Ask questions, stay informed, and work with your vet to make the best choice. 🐎❤️

Need help navigating a surgical decision? Visit AskAVet.com or download the Ask A Vet app for expert support 24/7. 📱🔍