What Is Intussusception?

Intussusception is a serious condition in which a part of the intestine slides or “telescopes” into an adjacent part of the intestine. This causes a blockage, preventing food or fluid from passing through, and can cut off the blood supply to the affected part of the bowel. It is most commonly seen in infants and young children, particularly between 6 months and 3 years of age, but it can also occur in adults.

What Causes Intussusception?

In many cases, the exact cause is unknown, especially in children. However, several potential causes include:

In children:

• Viral infections (such as adenovirus) that cause swelling in the lymph tissue in the intestine
• Congenital defects in the bowel
• Recent upper respiratory infections

In adults:

• Tumors (benign or malignant)
• Polyps
• Post-surgical adhesions
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

What Are the Symptoms of Intussusception?

The symptoms can come on suddenly and may include:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain that comes and goes
• Crying and drawing knees to the chest (in infants)
• Vomiting
• Bloody or “currant jelly” stool (a mix of mucus and blood)
• Lethargy or weakness
• Abdominal swelling
• Dehydration

In adults, the symptoms may be more subtle and chronic, such as intermittent abdominal pain, nausea, and weight loss.

How Is Intussusception Diagnosed?

Doctors typically use the following methods for diagnosis:

• Abdominal ultrasound – The most common and effective test, especially in children
• X-rays or contrast enema – Can show blockages or telescoping of the bowel
• CT scan – More often used in adult cases for detailed images

How Is Intussusception Treated?

In children:

• Air or contrast enema – Both diagnostic and therapeutic, these can often reverse the intussusception without surgery
• Surgery – Required if the enema is unsuccessful or if there is bowel perforation or tissue death

In adults:

• Surgery is usually necessary to remove the affected part of the bowel and address any underlying cause, such as a tumor

What Are the Complications of Intussusception?

If not treated promptly, intussusception can lead to:

• Bowel necrosis (tissue death)
• Peritonitis (infection of the abdominal cavity)
• Sepsis
• Shock
• Death, in severe untreated cases

Can Intussusception Be Prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent intussusception, but the following steps may reduce the risk:

• Timely treatment of infections
• Regular medical check-ups for early detection
• Monitoring of gastrointestinal symptoms in children, especially after recent illnesses