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Paediatric intussusception

OVERVIEW

Intussusception is a medical condition that can occur in children, particularly in infants aged between three months and three years old. It happens when one part of the intestine slides into another part, leading to a blockage. If left unaddressed, it can result in severe complications such as sepsis and bowel perforation. Intussusception necessitates urgent medical attention to prevent further complications. There are non-surgical interventions, such as an air enema, that can be used to correct the blockage. Timely diagnosis and proper treatment are crucial for the successful management of intussusception in children.

Signs and symptoms of intussusception in children

Intussusception in children can present with various signs and symptoms, which can include the following:

Severe abdominal pain: This is the most common symptom and is usually sudden in onset.
Crying and irritability: The child may cry excessively due to the pain.
Vomiting: The child may vomit several times.
Lethargy and weakness:The child may appear tired and weak due to the pain and discomfort.
Palpable mass: A lump may be felt in the abdomen due to the telescoping of the intestine.
Bloody stools: The child may pass red, jelly-like stools or stools mixed with blood and mucus.

It's essential to understand that not all children with intussusception will display every symptom, and some may not show any symptoms at all. Therefore, if you suspect that your child has intussusception, it's imperative to seek immediate medical attention.

Treatment

The treatment for intussusception in children typically involves either a non-surgical or surgical approach depending on the severity of the condition.

Non-surgical treatment: In some cases, intussusception can be corrected by a non-surgical procedure called an air or barium enema. This involves using X-rays to guide the insertion of air or barium into the intestine, which can help to push the telescoped segment back into place. The success rate of this procedure is approximately 80%, and it is commonly performed under sedation or general anaesthesia.
Surgical treatment: If the non-surgical approach is unsuccessful or if there are signs of bowel perforation, surgical intervention may be necessary. This treatment option involves an abdominal incision and manual reduction of the intussusception. However, if the intestine has suffered damage or necrosis, surgical intervention may be required, which could entail removing a portion of the intestine.

After treatment, the child will need to be closely monitored for complications such as infection or bowel obstruction. In most cases, children recover well after treatment for intussusception, particularly if the condition is detected and treated promptly.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Dr Mangray, the founder of KZN Specialised Paediatric Surgical Service, and his associates, Dr Ngobese, Dr Govender and Dr Dube-Zvirikuzhe, have a well-established reputation for caring for children right until late adolescence.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQ

1How is intussusception diagnosed?

Intussusception is usually diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic imaging tests, such as ultrasound or X-rays.

2Can intussusception be prevented?

As of now, there are no known preventive measures for intussusception in children.

3How does the future look for children who have experienced intussusception in the long run?

In most cases, children who have had intussusception recover well and do not experience any long-term complications. However, they may need to be monitored for bowel obstructions and other related issues in the future.