Symptoms and Diagnosis of Rectal Prolapse in Pigs
[Overview]
The protrusion of part of the rectum or part of the large intestine through the anus to the outside of the anus is called rectal prolapse, commonly known as prolapse of the anus.
[Cause/Pathogen]
It is mainly caused by constipation, diarrhea, weakness after illness, and strong tenesmus induced by enemas with irritating drugs, or chronic constipation or diarrhea, late pregnancy in sows, etc., with strong tenesmus, increased intra-abdominal pressure, and relaxation of the anal sphincter, prompting part or most of the rectum to turn outward through the anus and fail to retract on its own.
[Symptoms]
In the early stage of the disease, the rectal mucosa often turns out during defecation, but it can often retract on its own. If the prolapse lasts for a longer period, after inflammation of the intestinal mucosa it can no longer recover on its own, and the mucosa becomes swollen, red-purple, eroded, and may even suffer trauma and tearing.
[Symptom Image]
[Diagnosis]
[Treatment]
Rectal prolapse can also be treated by injecting alcohol around the anus. After reduction, inject at four points above, below, left, and right of the anus, at a depth of about 3-8 cm. Before injection, first insert the index finger into the anus to position the needle around the outer wall of the rectum, and then inject. Inject 0.5-2 ml of 95% alcohol at each point. Generally, after injection, it no longer prolapses before long. If the prolapsed rectum is severely edematous and eroded and difficult to reduce, rectal amputation must be considered.
[Prevention and Control Measures]
Improve feeding management and prevent constipation or diarrhea. After prolapse, reduction must be carried out promptly. First wash the prolapsed intestinal tract with 0.1% potassium permanganate, then lubricate the mucosa with oil, and carefully push it back into the anus. If the intestinal tract is severely edematous, prick the edematous mucosa with a needle, then use gauze to squeeze out the edematous fluid so that the intestinal tract shrinks, and then reduce it. Perform a purse-string suture around the anus (see figure), and note that the knot must not be tied too tightly, so as not to affect defecation. Within one week after reduction, give easily digestible feed and feed more green feed. If there is no bowel movement within 2-3 days, an enema must be performed. After a few days, once tenesmus disappears, the sutures can be removed.