Favourable outcome of segmental mesenteric entrapment and partial torsion as a result of an adhesion following ovariectomy in a dog

Abstract Mesenteric torsion, a life‐threatening surgical emergency, has been generally associated with a grave prognosis. In this case, a dog with partial mesenteric torsion, secondary to entrapment of small intestines by a uterine horn and adhesion, achieved a favourable outcome after surgery. The animal had undergone an ovariectomy 3 years prior, which likely set up an inflammatory cascade and allowed for adhesion formation with the uterine horn. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography showed the presence of a ‘whirl sign’ of blood vessels and segmental pathological dilation of the intestinal tract. An exploratory laparotomy was performed, identifying a uterine horn adhered to the mesentery of the jejunum with subsequent entrapment of a segment of the small intestine and partial mesenteric torsion. All lesions resolved following the transection of adhesions and the removal of the uterus. The dog was hospitalised for 2 days postoperatively, recovered uneventfully, and continued to thrive 6 months after discharge.