Intussuception Flashcards
What is intussusception?
A condition where the proximal bowel invaginates or telescopes into the distal bowel.
At what age is intussusception most commonly seen?
Between 3 months and 3 years, with a peak incidence at 3 to 9 months.
What percentage of intussusception cases occur in children under 2 years of age?
Approximately 85%.
What is intussusception?
The invagination of one part of the bowel into another.
What is the term for the invaginated part of the bowel in intussusception?
Intussusceptum
What is the term for the receiving part of the bowel in intussusception?
Intussuscepiens
What is the most common cause of intussusception?
Idiopathic causes, which are usually related to viral infections or gastroenteritis.
When does intussusception most commonly occur in relation to respiratory infections or gastroenteritis?
About 10 days after the infection
What is the role of the transition from breast to bottle feeding in intussusception?
It may play a role in triggering intussusception.
Is there any seasonal variation in the incidence of intussusception?
Yes, it is higher in the spring and summer, often referred to as the “gastro-season.”
What happens to Peyer’s patches during a viral infection, and how is this related to intussusception?
Peyer’s patches in the terminal ileum enlarge during a viral infection and are dragged along by peristalsis, leading to ileocolic intussusception.
Is intussusception associated with rotavirus vaccination?
Yes, but only with some preparations, not the strain used in South Africa.
What are lead points in intussusception, and what are some examples?
Lead points are structural abnormalities that cause intussusception. Examples include Meckel’s diverticulum, enlarged lymph nodes (including lymphoma), or polyps.
When is lead point-associated intussusception most commonly seen?
In older children, and it is much less common than idiopathic cases.
What is the typical presentation of postoperative intussusception?
It usually occurs 2-5 days after surgery, is generally painless, and presents with signs of bowel obstruction.
What type of intussusception is most commonly seen after retroperitoneal surgery?
Small bowel intussusception, such as ileo-ileal intussusception.
What happens when one part of the bowel telescopes into another in intussusception?
Obstruction of venous and lymphatic return, leading to edema and increased intra-luminal pressure.
What effect does the telescoping bowel have on the proximal bowel?
It leads to dilation of the proximal bowel due to intestinal obstruction.
What is the cause of the blood-mucoid stool in intussusception?
The mucosa on the intussuscepted bowel produces mucus and bleeds due to capillary rupture, resulting in the classic “redcurrant jelly” stool.
What is the most common type of intussusception?
Ileocolic intussusception.
Can intussusception occur in other parts of the bowel?
Yes, it can also be colo-colic or ileo-ileal.
What happens during intussusception in terms of fluid loss?
There is massive third-space fluid loss.
What complications can arise from the increasing pressure and ischemia caused by intussusception?
Strangulation, bowel infarction, and eventual necrosis.
What is a common misdiagnosis for patients with intussusception?
They are often misdiagnosed as having gastroenteritis or dysentery.