Intussusception is when one segment of intestine "telescopes" inside of
another causing an intestinal obstruction. Although it can occur anywhere in the
gastrointestinal tract, it usually occurs at the junction of the small and large
intestine. The obstruction can cause swelling & inflammation that can lead to
tearing of the intestines.
Intussusception’s cause is unknown, but is usually preceded by a virus that
produces swelling of the lining of the intestine, which then prolapses into the
downstream intestine. In some children, it is caused by a congenital anomaly of
the intestine such as a polyp or diverticulum.
What are the symptoms of intussusception?
The characteristic signs and symptoms of intussusception are episodic, severe,
crampy abdominal pain alternating with periods of lethargy. Small children may
draw their knees up to their chest. Other possible symptoms of intussusception include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rectal bleeding (red jelly-like stools) sometimes mixed with mucus
These symptoms begin abruptly, usually one week after a non-specific viral illness.
How common is intussusception?
Intussusception occurs most commonly in between the ages of 3 to 24 months, but
may occur at any age. It is seen in approximately 1 in 1,200 children with
increased frequency in boys. Intussusception occurs most frequently in the fall
and winter months during viral season, but may occur at anytime during the year.
How is intussusception diagnosed?
Intussusception is associated with an abdominal mass, which may be felt upon
physical examination. Ultrasonography is able to identify the mass with 100
percent accuracy and is now the first radiologic test prescribed for patients
with suspected intussusception. Two other radiologic tests--barium enema and air
contrast enema--also are used to help diagnose intussusception.
How is intussusception treated?
Once intussusception is diagnosed, the next step is to attempt hydrostatic
reduction (to push the intestine back) using a barium enema or air contrast
enema (same test used for diagnosis). This is a radiologic procedure not a
surgical procedure and does not require a general anesthetic.
These procedures (barium enema and air contrast enema) have a 60
percent to 70 percent success rate, with an 8 percent to 10 percent rate of
intussusception recurrence. They have a low risk of complications as well. If
hydrostatic reduction is unsuccessful, then surgery is required. Surgery may
also be done if there is significant infection, or are too ill for the radiologic procedure.
During the surgery
- The child is fully anesthetized by a pediatric anesthesiologist (a
specialist in pain relief and sedation in children).
- A small incision (cut) is made on the right side of the abdomen (similar
to the incision for an appendectomy), and the intestine is pushed back into its normal position.
- An appendectomy is performed to prevent recurrence of the intussusception.
- If the intussusception cannot be reduced, then removal of the involved
segment of bowel is performed.
After the surgery
Your child is given pain medication to keep him or her comfortable after the
surgery. The child will require IV fluids for several days since the intestines
are temporarily slowed. Feedings are withheld during this period of time. Most
children are able to resume eating in 1 to 3 days.
What to expect after discharge
Your child will be ready for discharge when he or she is tolerating a
regular diet, has no fever or drainage from the incision and has normal bowel function.
Most children will require one week of rest at home before returning to school, and 2 to 3 weeks before returning to gym and sports.
When to call your child's provider
You may notice some minor swelling around the incision; this is normal. However, call your health care provider if your child develops:
- Fever
- Excessive swelling, redness or drainage from the incision
- Bleeding
- Increasing pain
Follow-up office appointment
A follow-up outpatient visit will be scheduled for 7 to 10 days after your
child's surgery. Your child's health care provider will examine the wound and
assess his or her recovery.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 4/27/2009…#10793
