Intussusception

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Intussusception in Children – A Medical Emergency Every Parent Should Know

Intussusception is a serious condition in which one part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part—like the parts of a telescope. This leads to blockage, swelling, and decreased blood flow to the affected area. It most commonly affects infants and toddlers between 6 months to 3 years of age, and early diagnosis is critical.

Symptoms to Watch For

Parents should be aware of the classic signs, which often appear suddenly:

Crying and sudden sleepiness: A child may have intense, cramping pain that causes them to cry out, then become unusually quiet or sleepy.
Blood in stools: Often described as “red currant jelly” stools, due to the mix of blood and mucus.
Loose motion: Diarrhea may accompany or precede the condition.
Abdominal distension: The stomach appears swollen or firm to touch.
Bilious

These symptoms may come and go, making the condition hard to spot early. If left untreated, it can lead to intestinal damage, infection, or even death.

Diagnosis

Ultrasound abdomen is the most common and accurate test used to confirm intussusception.
X-ray and clinical examination also help identify obstruction or perforation.

Why Early Attention Matters

Intussusception is a medical emergency. Timely recognition and treatment usually result in complete recovery. Delayed intervention can lead to serious complications like bowel gangrene, sepsis, or the need for major surgery.

Treatment Options

Pneumatic Reduction (Air Enema)

A non-surgical method where air is gently pushed through the rectum to unfold the telescoped bowel.
Highly effective if done early and there’s no perforation.

Hydrostatic Reduction (Saline Enema)

Similar to pneumatic reduction but uses saline or contrast material under ultrasound or fluoroscopy guidance.

Laparotomy (Surgical Intervention)

Required if non-surgical methods fail or if the child shows signs of perforation, severe infection, or prolonged symptoms.
The surgeon manually corrects the intussusception or removes the damaged segment of bowel if needed.

Intussusception