Proctectomy with coloanal anastomosis in horses – a cadaveric study

• A rectal amputation technique was standardized in equine cadaveric models. • Procedure allowed controlled dissection and rectal exteriorization. • Resection lengths encompassed most clinically relevant injury locations. • Postmortem interval affected tissue handling and surgical performance. • Technique feasible; in vivo validation required for clinical applicability. Rectal amputation is a surgical approach indicated for the management of severe rectal lacerations or extensive rectal prolapse when transmural compromise or primary repair is unfeasible. These conditions, although uncommon, present substantial challenges in equine practice due to the anatomical complexity of the pelvic region and the potential for life-threatening complications if not adequately addressed. This study aimed to describe and standardize a reproducible surgical technique for rectal amputation in horse cadavers. Six equine cadavers (mean body mass, 441.83± 66.84 kg) were positioned in lateral recumbency, the anus was everted with simple interrupted sutures, and a circumferential incision was made around the anal sphincter. Perirectal tissue was dissected to expose the rectum, which was transected in quadrants to facilitate controlled removal, followed by immediate apposition of the mucosal, submucosal, and muscular layers to the remaining anal margin using interrupted sutures. Temporary eversion sutures were removed after completion of the anastomosis. The mean resected rectal length was 26.5 ± 4.46 cm (range, 21–31 cm), and the mean surgical time was 144.66 ± 32.64 minutes (range, 98–193 minutes). The technique was anatomically feasible and technically reproducible, providing a standardized approach that may assist in the surgical management of complex rectal disorders in horses.