Intussusception

Question 1

What is intussusception?

Answer 1

Invagination of one portion of bowel into the lumen of the adjacent bowel

Question 2

1) Where does intussusception most commonly occur?
2) Who does intussusception most commonly affect?
3) Is it more common in boys or girls?

Answer 2

1) Ileocaecal region
2) Infants between 6-18 months old
3) Boys

Question 3

Name 2 features of intussusception

Answer 3

• Paroxysmal abdominal colic pain
• During paroxysm the infant will characteristically draw their knees up and turn pale
• Vomiting
• Blood stained stool - ‘red-currant jelly’ - is a late sign
• Sausage-shaped mass in the right upper quadrant

Question 4

What is the investigation of choice?

Answer 4

Ultrasound

Question 5

The majority of children can be treated with reduction with what procedure?

Answer 5

Air insufflation under radiological control