Intussusception

Abstract

Intussusception is typically found in children between the ages of 3 months and 36 months, with careful resuscitation and electrolyte management required prior to any intervention. Typically, diagnosis is made with an abdominal ultrasound and a radiological procedure such as hydrostatic or pneumatic enema is the first line choice for management with good success rates. A second attempt at radiological reduction can be offered for a partial reduction or even non-reduction assuming the patient remains haemodynamically well with a non-acute abdomen. Surgical management, either minimally invasive or with a laparotomy, is performed when the clinical condition is unstable (i.e. in instances of perforation or peritonitis) or when a pathological lead point or repeated non-complete radiological reduction occurs. In the United Kingdom, patients are reviewed for approximately 24 hours to ensure resolution of symptoms without complication.