Related Experiment Videos
Documentation of spontaneous reduction of childhood intussusception by ultrasound
1Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio.
Insights
A rare case of spontaneous reduction in ileocolonic intussusception was observed in a child. Imaging confirmed the natural history of this common childhood abdominal emergency, avoiding surgery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Imaging
- Surgical Emergencies
Background:
- Intussusception is the most frequent cause of bowel obstruction in early childhood.
- Diagnosis and treatment typically involve contrast enema; surgery is reserved for unsuccessful attempts.
- The natural history of intussusception, particularly spontaneous resolution, is rarely documented with imaging.
Abstract:
Spontaneous reduction of a presumed ileo-colonic intussusception was demonstrated by ultrasound examination followed by a barium enema. No premedication or anesthetic had been given to the child. This case illustrates the possible natural history of intussusception rarely confirmed by imaging studies. Intussusception is the most common abdominal emergency of early childhood. Diagnosis and therapy is usually performed with a contrast enema. If unsuccessful, surgical reduction is indicated. We wish to report a case of spontaneous reduction of a presumed ileocolonic intussusception. This was initially diagnosed by ultrasound examination, but had spontaneously reduced by the time a barium enema was performed.