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[Ultrasound in suspected intussusception]
1Ultrasound Unit, Carmel Medical Center, Haifa.
Harefuah
|July 1, 1994
Summary
Ultrasound is a highly accurate tool for diagnosing intussusception in children, a common abdominal emergency. This imaging method offers 100% sensitivity and negative predictive value, reducing unnecessary procedures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Abdominal Emergencies
Background:
- Intussusception is a critical pediatric abdominal emergency with low diagnostic accuracy.
- Clinical misdiagnosis leads to unnecessary barium enemas.
- Ultrasound offers a radiation-free, accessible alternative for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound for intussusception in children.
- To assess ultrasound's ability to identify leading points and alternative diagnoses.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 14 children with clinically suspected intussusception from 1991-1993.
- Ultrasound examination as the primary diagnostic tool.
- Comparison with barium enema and surgical findings where applicable.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 100% negative predictive value for intussusception.
- Ultrasound correctly identified a duplication cyst and misdiagnosed impacted stool.
- Ultrasound identified intussusception in 6 of 14 suspected cases, with 4 confirmed by barium enema.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasound is a reliable imaging modality for diagnosing pediatric intussusception.
- It effectively identifies leading points and can differentiate from other conditions like ovarian torsion or appendicitis.
- Ultrasound can reduce misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive procedures.