Intussusception

Topic Overview

What is intussusception?

Intussusception means that one part of the intestine has folded into itself, like a telescope. This can happen anywhere along the intestinal tract. It usually happens between the lower part of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine. See a picture of intussusception .

The part of the intestine that folds inward may lose some or all of its blood supply. This section of the intestine becomes swollen and painful. If intussusception is not treated, the intestine may become blocked.

Intussusception usually happens in young children. It is rare in adults. This topic focuses on intussusception in children.

What causes intussusception?

The cause of intussusception in children is not known in most cases. Sometimes it happens after a child has a cold or has inflammation in the stomach and intestines.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms usually begin suddenly. Your child may:

• Act fussy.
• Vomit often. You may see green fluid in the vomit.
• Have severe belly pain and cramping that last from 1 to 5 minutes. Afterward, your child may seem normal, but another period of pain may start 5 to 30 minutes later.
• Have diarrhea or stools that contain blood or mucus.
• Have a swollen, painful belly. Your child may have a sausage-shaped lump in the upper right side of the belly.

If your child has symptoms of intussusception, call your doctor right away.

How is intussusception diagnosed?

The doctor will ask about your child’s health history and symptoms and do an exam. Intussusception can be hard to diagnose, because symptoms may come and go.

Your child may need an X-ray, ultrasound, enema, or other tests to confirm whether he or she has intussusception.

How is it treated?

Intussusception needs to be treated in the hospital with an enema or surgery. If it is not treated, dangerous problems can develop.

Most children get better if treatment begins within 24 hours after the start of symptoms. After your child is treated, watch for symptoms. The disease may come back.

Talk to your doctor about how to care for your child at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning about intussusception:	What is intussusception? What are the symptoms? Who gets intussusception?
Being diagnosed:	How is intussusception diagnosed?
Getting treatment:	How is it treated?
Living with intussusception:	What can I do at home to relieve symptoms of intussusception?

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Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: August 1, 2008
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Brad W. Warner, MD - Pediatric Surgery
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