What condition describes part of the intestine telescoping into itself?

The condition where part of the intestine telescopes into itself is known as intussusception. This term describes a specific type of bowel obstruction that occurs when one segment of the intestine invaginates or slides into an adjacent segment, much like a collapsible telescope. This can lead to obstruction of the bowel and compromised blood supply to the affected area, which can result in serious complications if not treated promptly.

Intussusception is particularly common in children but can also occur in adults. The causes may include certain conditions that involve the bowel, such as tumors or polyps, that can act as a leading edge for the telescoping process.

In contrast, conditions such as a strangulated hernia refer to a protrusion of an organ through a weak point in the surrounding tissue, which can lead to reduced blood flow but does not involve telescoping. A perforated peptic ulcer involves a hole in the stomach or intestinal wall, leading to leakage of contents, and does not describe the telescoping process. A hiatal hernia involves part of the stomach pushing through the diaphragm but also does not involve telescoping of the intestines. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing the specific pathology of these gastrointestinal conditions.