Intussusception

Question 1

Intussusception?

Answer 1

One part of the intestine pushes into an adjoining section of the intestine

Question 2

Where is a common area for intussusception to occur?

Answer 2

The ileocecal valve (which is where the end of the SI, the ileum, connects with the beginning of the LI, the cecum)

Question 3

What occurs in intussusception?

Answer 3

The narrower bowel moves into the wider bowel; a build up of pressure forces the small bowel to invaginate into the larger bowel

Question 4

What can cause a build up of pressure?

Answer 4

• tumour causes inflammation and increases pressure

- constipation causing increased pressure

Question 5

How common is intussusception?

Answer 5

~1-4 in 1000 live births (Can occur in adults as well)

Question 6

What is the pathology behind intussusception?

Answer 6

Invagination -> bowel obstruction -> inflammation -> increase production of exudate, hyperemia -> edema

Bowel obstruction causes an increase in intraluminal pressure and pushes against the wall and constricts the vessels in the bowel wall -> ischemia -> infarction

Question 7

What are some possible complications of intussusception?

Answer 7

• infarction
• perforation
• peritonitis
• substantial fluid shift with third spacing (which can be fatal for the infant)

Question 8

Treatment for intussusception?

Answer 8

Hydrostatic reduction

Question 9

Hydrostatic reduction?

Answer 9

Water soluble contrast medium that provides pressure to push back the invaginated area (using air pressure and water pressure)