Effect of romifidine on gastrointestinal motility, assessed by transrectal ultrasonography

Abstract

Summary A technique of transrectal ultrasonography was developed to investigate the effects of romifidine 80 and 120 μg/kg bwt on intestinal motility in the horse. Motility of the small intestine, caecum and left ventral colon were assessed following injection of romifidine and a saline control, using a blinded, cross‐over study design in 6 horses. Measurements were taken at 15, 30, 60, 120, 180 and 240 min after drug administration. There was a slight nonsignificant decrease in motility in the control group over the 4 h study period. Both doses of romifidine produced a marked decrease in gastrointestinal motility and were associated with the presence of reduced (nonpropulsive) contractions. Transrectal ultrasonography proved suitable for monitoring changes in the type and frequency of intestinal motility in the horse.

Investigation of the effect of pasture and stable management on large intestinal motility in the horse, measured using transcutaneous ultrasonography

“…This study has produced baseline data on the normal motility of the large intestine in stabled and pastured horses. Frequency of caecal contractions were lower than those reported in other studies (Freeman and England 2001; Sasaki et al . 2008).…”

“…Aboral left ventral colon was imaged in the caudal ventral abdomen close to the inguinal region, with the probe oriented craniocaudally. Regions of the intestine were identified by their position in the abdomen and ultrasonographic features (Freeman and England 2001; Williams et al . 2011).…”

Clinical effects and pharmacokinetic variables of romifidine and the peripheral α2‐adrenoceptor antagonist MK‐467 in horses

“…). Along with these well‐known side effects, α 2 ‐adrenoceptor agonists also reduce gut motility (Roger & Ruckebusch ; Freeman & England ; Elfenbein et al. ; Mama et al.…”

Prospective survey of veterinary practitioners’ primary assessment of equine colic: clinical features, diagnoses, and treatment of 120 cases of large colon impaction

“…Some treatments, such as spasmolytics and sedatives, have a temporary inhibitory effect on intestinal motility [27,28], which may be undesirable in impaction cases. They are however commonly used to improve patient co-operation, and patient and veterinary surgeon safety during diagnostic procedures such as rectal examination and nasogastric intubation.…”