Intussusception

What Is Intussusception?

Intussusception is a serious condition in infants and young children where a segment of the intestine slides into an adjacent part of the intestine, similar to how parts of a telescope collapse into one another. This telescoping effect causes a blockage, restricting the flow of food and fluids and cutting off blood supply to the affected portion of bowel.

Intussusception is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children between 6 months and 3 years of age. It requires prompt medical attention and, in many cases, emergency treatment to avoid bowel damage or life-threatening complications.

Causes and Risk Factors

In most cases, the exact cause of intussusception is unknown. However, some children may develop it after a viral infection, which may cause lymph tissue in the intestinal wall to swell and act as a lead point. Other potential factors include:

  • Benign polyps or Meckel’s diverticulum
  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the intestines
  • Previous surgery or congenital intestinal abnormalities (less common)

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of intussusception typically begin suddenly and may include:

  • Severe, intermittent abdominal pain (infants may draw knees to chest and cry)
  • Vomiting, sometimes bile-colored (green)
  • Bloody or “currant jelly” stools (mixed with mucus)
  • Lethargy, weakness, or pale appearance
  • Abdominal swelling or a sausage-shaped mass in the abdomen

Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, rapid diagnosis and treatment are essential.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Intussusception is diagnosed using imaging studies, such as:

  • Ultrasound – the most common and accurate diagnostic tool
  • Air or contrast enema – used for both diagnosis and treatment

Treatment Options

Initial treatment often involves a non-surgical reduction using an air or contrast enema, which can successfully unfold the telescoped bowel in many cases. This procedure is performed under radiologic guidance and has a high success rate when done promptly.

If the enema is unsuccessful or if the bowel is perforated or necrotic, surgical intervention is necessary. During surgery, the surgeon will manually reduce the intussusception or remove any damaged segments of intestine if needed. After treatment, most children recover quickly with supportive care and monitoring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The cause is often unknown, but it may follow a viral illness or be triggered by intestinal swelling, polyps, or a diverticulum.

It is a medical emergency that can lead to bowel damage if not treated promptly. Fortunately, with timely care, most children recover fully.

Sudden, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, bloody stools, and unusual fatigue or weakness in your child should prompt urgent evaluation.

Not always. In many cases, an air or contrast enema can successfully treat the condition. Surgery is required if the enema fails or if complications arise.

Yes, recurrence is possible, though uncommon. Most cases happen only once, but your child’s doctor will discuss follow-up and prevention if needed.