In incarcerations, a loop of intestine has become entrapped within a normal or abnormal structure within the abdominal cavity. The most common example is a strangulating hernia, in which the intestine has become caught within a natural or unnatural opening. If the entrapped intestine becomes strangulated so that its blook supply is shut off, the incarceration is a surgical emergency.

For more information, see Colic, Impaction Colic, Spasmodic Colic, Excessive Fermentation Colic, Displacement Colic

Browse related Articles by tag: horses, glossary