Intussusception

What are the treatments for the condition?

If intussesception is not diagnosed and treated promptly, death will occur in 3 to 5 days. Treatment is highly effective, and death in untreated children is rare.

Barium or air is inserted through the rectum, causing the pressure inside the intestine to increase. This pressure forces the intestines back into their normal place. If this procedure fails, surgery is necessary. During surgery, the intestine is physically pulled back into normal position. The surgeon will look for and repair any cause of the intussesception.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Rarely, a barium enema can put a hole in the intestine. If this occurs, surgery will be necessary. Surgery carries a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

After treatment, the child is monitored in the hospital for at least 24 hours. When the child is eating well, he or she can generally go home. Intussesception recurs 3% to 11% of the time. A second episode is most common in children who were treated with barium enema rather than surgery.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.