Intussusception Flashcards
What is Intussusception?
A condition where the bowel “invaginates” or “telescopes” into itself
How is the bowel affected with intussusception?
This thickens the overall size of the bowel and narrows the lumen at the folded area,
What does intussusception result in?
A palpable mass in the abdomen and obstruction to the passage of faeces through the bowel.
Who does intussusception usually affect?
infants 6 months to 2 years
more common in boys.
What are the 2 characteristic signs of Intussusception?
- bloodstained stool - ‘red-currant jelly’ - is a late sign
* sausage-shaped mass in the right upper quadrant
What are the symptoms of intussuception?
- Severe, colicky abdominal pain
- inconsolable crying
- Knees to chest-due to abdo pain
- Pale, lethargic and unwell child
- Vomiting
- Rectal bleeding
How is intussusception diagnosed?
Ultrasound scan
What might you see on an ultrasound scan?
Target-like mass
What is the main management of Intussusception?
Reduction by air insufflation under radiological control
When would you preform surgery for Intussusception?
When reduction by air insufflation under radiological control fails
or
If the child has signs of peritonitis
What are possible complications of intussusception?
- Obstruction
- Gangrenous bowel
- Perforation
- Death
What is Intussusception associated with?
- Concurrent viral illness
- Henoch-Schonlein purpura
- Cystic fibrosis
- Intestinal polyps
- Meckel diverticulum
