The ultra-structural alterations in the equine jejune villi caused by intraluminal distension were analyzed. Six animals had a jejunum segment distended with saline solution. The intraluminal pressure was maintained in 25cm of water for 2h. The mucosal samples collected (0h, 2h of distension, 2h and 12h of decompression) were analyzed with scan electronic microscopy (SEM). The area and the perimeter of the villi, as well as their density, were analyzed using a specific software for image analysis (Image J). The luminal distention and decompression induced an increase on villi dimensions (area and perimeter). This ultrastructural alteration occurred just 12h after decompression, possibily due to edema caused by the increase of vascular permeability resulting from ischemia and reperfusion of the intestine mucosa. The intraluminal distension of the equine jejune caused a delayed increase of the intestine villi dimensions.
equine; intestinal distension; ischemia; reperfusion; villus
