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Childhood intussusception: a 9-year review
B T Ugwu1, J N Legbo, N K Dakum
1Department of Surgery, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. ugwub@unijos.edu.ng
Annals of Tropical Paediatrics
|August 17, 2000
Summary
Intussusception in children often presents with a quartet of symptoms, not just the classical triad. Surgery is common, with various causes identified, including lymphadenopathy and inflamed Peyer
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Intussusception is a significant cause of bowel obstruction in children.
- Accurate diagnosis and timely management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review intussusception cases managed at Jos University Teaching Hospital.
- To analyze clinical presentation, surgical findings, and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 64 consecutive intussusception cases (infants and older children).
- Data collected on patient demographics, clinical signs, surgical interventions, and complications.
Main Results:
- The quartet of symptoms (pain, bloody stools, abdominal mass, rectal mass) was more frequent (70%) than the triad (32%).
- Common causes included idiopathic (41%), polyps (3%), and appendiceal stump (5%).
- Ileo-colic intussusception occurred in 50%, with 67% successful manual reduction.
Conclusions:
- The quartet of symptoms is a more sensitive indicator for intussusception.
- Prompt surgical intervention is necessary, with a variety of underlying causes.
- Wound infection and adhesive obstruction are common post-operative complications.