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A Rare Case of Small Bowel Intussusception in an Elderly: A Case Report and Literature Review
Rohan Raj1, Maya Ann Francis2, Deepa Treesa Francis2
1Internal Medicine, Nalanda Medical College and Hospital, Patna, IND.
Abstract:
Intussusception, a rare cause of bowel obstruction in adults, is even less common in the elderly population. Unlike pediatric cases, adult intussusception is primarily associated with pathologic diseases acting as lead points, often requiring surgical intervention. We present a case of an 84-year-old male with a medical history significant for multiple comorbidities, who was diagnosed with a large segment jejunojejunal intussusception resulting in small bowel obstruction. Surgical management was recommended, and an exploratory laparotomy with bowel resection was performed, including the excision of the leading point. This case highlights the challenges in diagnosing adult intussusception and the importance of surgical intervention due to the high incidence of associated pathologic diseases.
Insights
Adult intussusception is rare, especially in the elderly, and often linked to underlying diseases. This case emphasizes surgical intervention for jejunojejunal intussusception due to associated pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Intussusception, a rare cause of bowel obstruction, is significantly less common in the elderly.
- Unlike pediatric intussusception, adult cases frequently involve pathologic lead points necessitating surgical intervention.
Observation:
- An 84-year-old male with comorbidities presented with jejunojejunal intussusception causing small bowel obstruction.
- Diagnostic challenges in elderly patients with intussusception are notable.
Findings:
- Surgical management via exploratory laparotomy and bowel resection was performed.
- The leading point pathology was successfully excised, resolving the obstruction.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical importance of surgical intervention in adult intussusception.
- Early diagnosis and surgical management are vital due to the high association with underlying pathologic diseases in the elderly.

