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==Diagnosis==
 
==Diagnosis==
Diagnosis of intussusception in the horse may be difficult as abdominocentesis rarely reveals any abnormalities. This is due to the strangulated portion of gut being contained within the intussuscipiens. In the case of jejuno-jejunal intussusceptions, rectal examination may reveal a sausage-shaped, tubular structure in the mid abdomen of the horse. Abdominal ultrasonography may reveal a characteristic target or 'bulls-eye' lesion on transverse section. Peristalsis in the affected segment is reduced or absent. Oedema and thickening (>3mm) of the intestinal wall are often seen with a distended, fluid-filled region proximal to the intussusception.
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Diagnosis of intussusception in the horse may be difficult as abdominocentesis rarely reveals any abnormalities. This is due to the strangulated portion of gut being contained within the intussuscipiens. In the case of jejuno-jejunal intussusceptions, rectal examination may reveal a sausage-shaped, tubular structure in the mid abdomen of the horse. The presence of melaena is a significant finding and may raise clinical suspicion of intussusception. Abdominal ultrasonography may reveal a characteristic target or 'bulls-eye' lesion on transverse section. Peristalsis in the affected segment is reduced or absent. Oedema and thickening (>3mm) of the intestinal wall are often seen with a distended, fluid-filled region proximal to the intussusception.
 
Definitive diagnosis, however, is often based on findings at laparotomy.
 
Definitive diagnosis, however, is often based on findings at laparotomy.
 
   
 
   
 
==Treatment==
 
==Treatment==
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Treatment is surgical reduction of the affected region of intestine followed by resection and anastamosis.
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==Prognosis==
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The prognosis is good if surgery is performed before the intussusception has become irreducible.
       
==References==
 
==References==
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*Knottenbelt, D. C., Pascoe, R. R. (2003) '''Diseases and Disorders of the Horse''' ''Elsevier Health Sciences''
    
*McIlwraith, C. W., Turner, Robertson, J. T. (1998) '''McIlwraith & Turner's Equine Surgery: advanced techniques''' ''Wiley-Blackwell''
 
*McIlwraith, C. W., Turner, Robertson, J. T. (1998) '''McIlwraith & Turner's Equine Surgery: advanced techniques''' ''Wiley-Blackwell''
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