Pediatric Intussusception

Intussusception is a medical emergency. If you believe your child has intussusception you should see your health care professional immediately.

Dallas

214-456-6040
Fax: 214-456-6320

Plano

469-497-2501
Fax: 469-497-2507

Park Cities

469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001

Prosper

469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511

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What is Pediatric Intussusception?

Intussusception is an intestinal obstruction that occurs when one length of bowel “telescopes” into another. This can be found in children of all ages, but most commonly occurs in children from 3 months to 3 years of age.

What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Intussusception?

Common symptoms may include sudden, loud crying or sudden and severe abdominal pain.

Other symptoms are:

How is Pediatric Intussusception diagnosed?

Diagnosis is made through an abdominal X-ray and an ultrasound exam of the abdomen.

What are the causes of Pediatric Intussusception?

Experts do not know what causes intussusception. There is an association to other conditions including viral infections, abdominal and/or intestinal tumors and masses, appendicitis, celiac disease, Crohn's disease and parasites.

Intussusceptions in older children (>5 years of age) are frequently caused by polyps, diverticula and occasionally serious tumors.

How is Pediatric Intussusception treated?

Most intussusceptions can be treated by the radiologist with an air enema. This pushes the bowel trapped in intussusception back to its normal position. If air enema is unsuccessful in reducing intussusception, patient requires prompt surgery.

A bowel obstruction from intussusception in an older child almost always requires surgery.

Pediatric Intussusception Doctors and Providers