[Intussusception in children in Iceland]

Intussusception occurs when a proximal portion of the bowel invaginates into the distal bowel. It is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children between 3 months and 3 years. This study aimed to assess patient profile, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment and outcome in children diagnosed with intussusception in Iceland.

We conducted a retrospective chart review of all children diagnosed with intussusception in Iceland during a 25 year period (1986-2010). Patients were identified from a medical record database in Iceland's two main hospitals, Landspítali and Akureyri Hospital.

A total of 67 children aged 3 months to 11 years (median age 8 months) were diagnosed with intussusception. Male to female ratio was 3:2. The mean incidence of intussusception was 0.4 cases per 1000 children <1 year old. Intussusception was idiopathic in 70% of patients and occurred in the ileocolic region in 94%. Barium contrast enema was the most common diagnostic test. Barium enema reduction was attempted in 82% of patients and successful reduction rate was 62%. Surgical treatment was required in 49% of patients and involved resection of bowel in 9%. Three children had recurrent intussusception.

The results of treatment for intussusception in Iceland are good. The decline of enemas performed and the rise in surgical treatment observed over the study period is a reason for concern. In this regard there is room for improvement.