Intussusception

What Is Intussusception?

Intussusception occurs when one part of a child’s intestine slides (or "telescopes") into an adjacent part. This causes the bowel to become blocked, leading to swelling, decreased blood flow, and potential tissue damage. If not treated quickly, intussusception can cause severe complications.

Who Is Affected?

• Most commonly affects infants between 6 months and 2 years old
• Slightly more common in boys than girls
• Can occasionally occur in older children and, rarely, in adults

What Causes Intussusception?

In many cases, the exact cause is unknown. However, some cases are triggered by:

• Viral infections that cause inflammation of lymph tissue in the intestine
• Meckel’s diverticulum (a congenital pouch in the intestine)
• Polyps or tumors (more common in older children and adults)

Symptoms of Intussusception

Symptoms often begin suddenly and may include:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain – Often comes and goes in waves as the intestine contracts
• Crying and drawing knees to the chest in infants
• Vomiting – May be green or yellow due to bile
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness
• “Currant jelly” stools – A mix of blood and mucus in the stool, seen in later stages
• Swollen or tender abdomen
• Palpable abdominal mass – Sometimes felt as a sausage-shaped lump

Why Is It an Emergency?

If left untreated, intussusception can cut off the blood supply to the affected part of the intestine, leading to:

• Tissue death
• Perforation (hole) in the bowel
• Sepsis (life-threatening infection)

That’s why prompt medical attention is critical.

Diagnosis

If intussusception is suspected, doctors may order:

• Abdominal ultrasound – Often the most effective and non-invasive tool
• X-rays or contrast enemas – Sometimes used to confirm the diagnosis and may even treat the condition

Treatment

Most cases are treated successfully with a contrast or air enema, which not only confirms the diagnosis but also unfolds the telescoped intestine. This is done in a hospital under radiologic guidance.

If the enema doesn’t work or if there are complications like bowel damage, surgery may be necessary.

Recovery and Prognosis

• Most children recover completely, especially when treated early.
• A small percentage may have a recurrence.
• Follow-up care is important to monitor for complications or recurrence.

When to Seek Immediate Help

Call 911 or go to the emergency room if your child shows signs of:

• Severe, intermittent abdominal pain
• Vomiting with blood or bile
• Bloody, mucus-like stools
• Lethargy or sudden weakness
• Bloated, tender abdomen

Need care now?
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Our San Jose pediatric team is ready to help with a thorough exam, labs or imaging if needed. Don’t hesitate—early action = better outcomes.