Intussusception associated with a linear foreign body in a dog: A case report

Intussusception is defined as the invagination of an intestinal segment (intussusceptum) into the lumen of an adjacent segment (intussuscipiens)[1,2]. This condition can form under the direction of normal peristalsis from proximal to distal or vice versa[3,4]. Based on location, it may occur anywhere in the gastrointestinal tract; nevertheless, ileocolic intussusception has the highest prevalence[5,6]. Intussusception may be seen independently with an unknown etiology or in association with a number of abnormalities such as parasitism, viral enteritis, acute gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, intestinal masses, anesthesia, and abdominal surgery[7,8]. Moreover, it may be accompanied by gastrointestinal foreign bodies and in particular the linear ones[6]. The severity and type of clinical signs can be determined by the location and duration of the intestinal obstruction[9]. The most common clinical signs and symptoms due to intussusception concurrent with linear foreign body are anorexia, lethargy, vomiting, absence of defecation or scant bloody diarrhea, a palpable mass and pain in the abdominal region. Electrolyte and acid-base imbalances are also present[6]. Plain abdominal radiographs may reveal obstruction; however, definitive diagnosis is only made by contrast radiography and ultrasonography[2,6]. Considering the linear foreign body as a causal agent, small gas bubbles and pleating may be seen in the intestines with diagnostic imaging[1,2]. Treatment should be aimed at the correction of hemodynamic and electrolyte disturbances, reduction of the intussusceptum from the intussuscipiens and elimination of secondary infections and the other complications. Enterotomy or intestinal resection and anastomosis are necessary in cases of concurrent linear foreign bodies[6]. Herein, we reported a case of intussusception that liner foreign body was considered as its underlying cause. ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT