A Comprehensive Guide to Pediatric Intussusception: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Intussusception is a serious condition that affects the intestines of children, especially those between 3 months and 3 years of age. In this blog post, we will answer some common questions about intussusception, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What is intussusception?

Intussusception is when one part of the intestine slides inside another part, causing the intestine to fold into itself like a telescope. This creates a blockage or obstruction that prevents food from passing through the intestine. Intussusception can also cut off the blood supply to the affected part of the intestine, leading to tissue damage and infection.

What causes intussusception?

The exact cause of intussusception is not known in most cases. It may be related to a viral infection, an abnormal growth or tumor in the intestine, or a congenital defect in the intestine. Some conditions that may increase the risk of intussusception include appendicitis, celiac disease, cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease, and parasites.

What are the symptoms of intussusception?

The most common symptom of intussusception is sudden, severe abdominal pain that comes and goes. The pain may make your child cry loudly, draw their knees up to their chest, or act very irritable. Your child may also vomit, have bloody or red jelly-like stools, have a fever, or become lethargic. If left untreated, intussusception can cause dehydration, shock, and even death.

How is intussusception diagnosed?

If you suspect your child has intussusception, you should seek medical attention right away. Your child's doctor will examine your child and ask about their medical history and symptoms. Your child may also need some imaging tests to check their intestines. These tests may include:

- Abdominal X-ray: This test may show signs of intestinal blockage or perforation.

- Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the intestines and can detect intussusception and its location.

- Barium enema: This test involves inserting a liquid contrast agent into the rectum and taking X-rays of the colon. This test can also help reduce intussusception by applying pressure on the intestine.

How is intussusception treated?

The treatment for intussusception depends on the severity and duration of the condition. The main goal is to reduce or remove the intestinal blockage and restore blood flow to the intestine. The possible treatment options include:

- Non-surgical reduction: This involves using air or liquid contrast agents to inflate the intestine and push the telescoped part back into place. This can be done using an enema and this method is successful in about 80% of cases and has fewer complications than surgery.

- Surgery: If non-surgical reduction fails or is not possible, your child may need surgery to correct intussusception. The surgeon will make an incision in the abdomen and manually reduce or remove the affected part of the intestine. Surgery may also be needed if there is a perforation, infection, or gangrene in the intestine.

What are the possible complications of intussusception?

Intussusception can cause serious complications if not treated promptly. These include:

- Perforation: This is when a hole forms in the intestinal wall due to lack of blood supply or pressure from the blockage. This can cause infection, bleeding, and peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the abdomen).

- Sepsis: This is when bacteria from the infected intestine enter the bloodstream and cause a systemic infection that can affect multiple organs.

- Death: Intussusception can be fatal if it causes shock, organ failure, or severe bleeding.