Evaluating the post-foaling mare with colic. Part 2: the genitourinary and reproductive tracts

Post-foaling colic is a common presenting complaint for equine practitioners that requires careful evaluation. Colic signs can be attributed to conditions of the gastrointestinal, reproductive and genitourinary tracts. Diagnostic workup is similar to that of most other cases of colic, with additional attention paid to the udder, vulva and vaginal vault; transabdominal ultrasound examination is often key in establishing a diagnosis. Conditions of the genitourinary and reproductive tracts include periparturient haemorrhage, which may be intra-abdominal, intrauterine, intramural, vaginal and/or into the broad ligament, uterine tear with or without intestinal evisceration, bladder rupture, septic metritis and/or retained foetal membranes, invagination of a uterine horn, uterine prolapse and bladder prolapse. Prompt diagnosis is vital as aggressive therapy is generally required for the majority of these conditions and prognosis is variable depending on the condition and severity.