I am not a vet, but I do know that reflux can be a
very dangerous aspect to colic. If an impacted horse keeps receiving
fluids without having previous fluids removed from the stomach, dire
consequences can occur, such as stomach bursting.
When my mare was treated at the Spring Quicksilver
Ride with IV fluids, Dr. Greg Fellers observed the tiniest dribble of fluids
coming out of her nostril. He then proceeded to pump gallons out of her
belly. For hours, she was given fluids via IV, and then pumped, back and
forth, until the impaction finally dissolved. I think that horses being
given fluids via IV or stomach tube should be very carefully monitored for
reflux. It can be very scary.
