Full‐laparoscopic nephrosplenic space closure with barbed knotless sutures in horses with left dorsal colon displacement without previous colon repositioning

Background Nephrosplenic space entrapment (NSE) has reported recurrence rates of 8%‒23%, and closure of the nephrosplenic space (NSS) has been shown to lower the incidence. Described techniques for nephrosplenic space closure (NSC) with concurrent left dorsal displacement (LDD) of the colon at the time of surgery consist of reducing the displaced colon prior to closure. Methods A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the medical records of horse undergoing NSC between 2017 and 2024. A total of 18 horses with LDD at time of NSC and 21 without displacement at time of NSC were evaluated. Short‐ and long‐term outcomes were compared. Results Surgical time was similar for both groups. No significant association was found between LDD at time of surgery and the presence of signs of colic after the surgery. A statistically significant decrease in number of colic episodes after surgery was seen in both groups, and none of the horses were represented with an NSE again. Limitations Retrospective study design and the associated potential for bias. Conclusion Full‐laparoscopic closure of the NSS with a left dorsally displaced colon, and without prior repositioning of the colon, in subacute or chronic cases, is technically feasible, and safe and does not increase the total surgical time.