Intussusception natural history, complications and prognosis
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Intussusception Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Intussusception On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Intussusception |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Natural History
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Complications
- A hole (perforation) is a serious complication due to risk of infection. If not treated, intussusception is almost always fatal for infants and young children.
Prognosis
- Intussusception is a medical emergency, as it will eventually cause death if not reduced. When an intussusception or any other severe medical problem is suspected, the person must be taken to a hospital immediately.
- The outlook for intussusception is excellent when treated quickly, but when untreated it can lead to death within 2–5 days.
- Fast treatment is a necessity, because the longer the intestine segment is prolapsed the longer it goes without bloodflow, and the less effective a non-surgical reduction will be.
- Prolonged intussusception also increases the likelihood of bowel ischemia and necrosis, requiring surgical resection.