Nonsurgical reduction of prolapsed colocolic intussusception in 2 puppies

To describe the nonsurgical management of prolapsed colocolic intussusception in 2 puppies.

Two 3-month-old male intact puppies (Pug and Labrador Retriever) developed intussusceptions that had prolapsed from the anus after they had suffered from tenesmus with soft feces or diarrhea. Reduction of the prolapsed tissue was performed and colocolic intussusception was diagnosed ultrasonographically in 1 dog. Rectal manipulation and saline enema were performed in both dogs, and reduction of the intussusception was confirmed endoscopically or ultrasonographically. Bupivacaine and prednisolone foam enemas were administered to reduce tenesmus. Abdominal ultrasonography the following day in 1 dog confirmed a normal appearing colon. No further tenesmus was noted in 1 dog; the other had a brief rectal prolapse after an episode of tenesmus that was manually reduced. Intussusception had not recurred 4 months and 1 year following manual reduction procedures.

This is the first report of successful nonsurgical management of colocolic intussusception in a companion animal. Nonsurgical management is a first-line treatment of intussusception in children and could be considered in dogs with colocolic intussusception. Further investigation is required to define specific aspects, including rectal manipulation, saline enema, or anesthesia, that aid in resolution of this type of intussusception.