Intussusception (children)

Treatment:

In some cases, the bowel obstruction can be reduced with a barium enema by a skilled radiologist. There is a risk of bowel perforation with this procedure, and the procedure is not used if a bowel perforation is already present.

If nonoperative reduction is unsuccessful, a surgical reduction is indicated. Usually the bowel tissue can be saved, but if dying tissue is present, surgical removal of part of the bowel (resection) will be performed.

Intravenous feeding and fluid will be continued until a normal bowel movement has passed.

Expectations (prognosis):

The probable outcome is good with early treatment. In older children, intussusception may develop because of the presence of polyps or tumor.

Complications:

• perforation with infection

Calling your health care provider:

INTUSSUSCEPTION IS AN EMERGENCY CONDITION! Call the health care provider or go to the emergency room immediately.