Strangulating obstruction of the small intestine in the horse is
associated with a high mortality rate. Although many intestinal lesions
can be treated surgically, more effective strategies are needed to
decrease the occurrence of complications related to the intestinal
segments that are not amenable to intestinal resection. The aim of this
PhD was to determine the feasibility and effect of two novel treatment
modalities in equine small intestinal ischaemia. Therefore, ischaemic
postconditioning and pharmacological preconditioning with lidocaine and
xylazine were investigated in two experimental in vivo studies. By
evaluating different variables for intestinal ischaemia reperfusion
injury by use of histomorphology, immunohistochemistry and biochemical
analysis, the results of this study demonstrate the applicability of
these treatments in experimental small intestinal ischaemia in horses.