Intussusception

A healthcare professional typically starts by getting a medical history and a timeline of when symptoms started. A sausage-shaped lump may be felt when the belly is pressed. To confirm the diagnosis, imaging tests may be done, including:

• Ultrasound or other abdominal imaging. An ultrasound, an X-ray or a CT scan may show an intestinal blockage caused by intussusception. Imaging results typically show a "bull's-eye" where the intestine is coiled within itself. Abdominal imaging also can show if the intestine has been torn, called perforation.

Treatment of intussusception typically happens as a medical emergency. Emergency medical care is needed to avoid severe dehydration and shock, as well as prevent infection that can happen when part of the intestine dies due to lack of blood.

Treatment options for intussusception may include:

• A water-soluble contrast or air enema. This is both a diagnostic procedure and a treatment. If an enema works, further treatment is usually not necessary. This treatment can fix intussusception 90% of the time in children, and no further treatment is needed. If the intestine is torn, an enema can't be used.

  Intussusception happens again up to 10% of the time, and the treatment will usually have to be repeated. It is important to consult a surgeon even if treatment with an enema is planned. This is because of the small risk of a tear or rupture of the bowel with this therapy.

• Surgery. If the intestine is torn, if an enema does not correct the condition or if a lead point is the cause, surgery is needed. The surgeon frees the part of the intestine that is trapped, clears the blockage and, if needed, removes any of the intestinal tissue that has died. Surgery is the main treatment for adults and for people who are suddenly ill.

Sometimes, intussusception may be temporary and go away without treatment.

Emergency medical care is needed to treat intussusception. You may not have much time to prepare for an appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your child's healthcare team is likely to ask you several questions, including:

• When did your child begin experiencing stomach pain or other symptoms?
• Does your child's pain appear to happen all the time or does it happen off and on?
• Does the pain begin and end suddenly?
• Has your child experienced nausea, vomiting or diarrhea?
• Have you noticed any blood in your child's stool?
• Have you noticed any swelling or a lump in your child's belly?

What you can do in the meantime

Don't give your child any nonprescription medicines to treat symptoms before the appointment. Don't give your child anything to eat if you see any of the symptoms of intussusception. Seek medical help right away.