DIGESTIVE SYSTEM 125 



linseed oil may be administered by means of a dose syringe, giving 

 relatively large doses. 



Prolapse of the Anus and Rectum 



Prolapsus ani is a condition in which the mucous membrane of 

 the rectum protrudes through the anus. The protrusion of the 

 mucous membrane occurs normally during defecation, particularly 

 in the horse. Prolapsus recti is a protrusion of the entire intestinal 

 structure of the rectum through the anus. 



Prolapsus ani is relatively common in swine and occasional cases 

 of prolapsus recti are observed. Several pigs weighing 50 to 70 

 pounds each, were observed affected with prolapsus ani. These pigs 

 were on pasture and were being fed middlings in slop. 



Etiology. — Protrusion of the rectal mucosa or the entire rectal 

 structure is caused by increased abdominal pressure. These cases 

 are frequently observed in swine in which there has been severe diar- 

 rhea. Constipation or intestinal obstruction may cause prolapsus 

 ani or recti. Proctitis induced by hot or irritating enemas may cause 

 this disturbance. Restraint of exceptionally resistant animals may 

 produce temporary or permanent prolapsus. 



Symptoms. — In prolapsus recti a hemispherical mass of mucous 

 membrane, red and sensitive, projects from the anus. A larger 

 and more dense swelling is present than in prolapsus ani and it be- 

 comes edematous. In some cases of prolapsus recti the intestinal 

 structure may protrude four to eight inches from the anus. In cases 

 of prolapsus that have persisted for several days the mucous mem- 

 brane becomes dry and may undergo necrosis and slough, thus af- 

 fecting a spontaneous recovery. In cases of prolapsus recti in which 

 there is a noticeable protrusion, the protruded portion usually be- 

 comes injured from lying down or is lacerated by other pigs. 



Treatment. — Prolapsus ani of recent development may be cor- 

 rected by first cleansing the protruding mucous membrane and then 

 by steady pressure it can usually be forced into its normal position. 

 Straining or tenesmus may be prevented by the use of rectal in- 

 jections of chloral hydrate or oleaginous substances. The causative 

 factor of diarrhea or constipation should be relieved, the medica- 

 ment employed depending upon indications. 



Prolapsus recti of recent origin may be corrected by the same pro- 

 cedure as indicated for overcoming prolapsus ani. In cases of long 



