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Intussusception in infancy and childhood: analysis of 69 cases
1Department of Surgery, University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Insights
This study on intussusception in children found a high mortality rate, particularly in infants. Delayed treatment significantly increases the risk of complications and death in pediatric intussusception cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Intussusception is a common surgical emergency in infants and young children.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of intussusception.
- To identify factors contributing to mortality in intussusception cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 69 intussusception cases treated between October 1985 and September 1992.
- Clinical diagnosis confirmed intraoperatively; all patients underwent laparotomy.
Main Results:
- The majority of patients (72.5%) were aged 3-9 months, with a male predominance (3.6:1 ratio).
- The classic triad of symptoms was present in only 15.9% of cases.
- 11.6% mortality rate, strongly associated with delayed treatment; 77.1% of resections involved gangrenous bowel.
Conclusions:
- Delayed presentation significantly impacts intussusception outcomes, leading to increased morbidity and mortality.
- Prompt surgical intervention is essential for managing pediatric intussusception effectively.
Abstract:
A retrospective study of 69 cases of intussusception treated at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, in the past seven years from October 1985 to September 1992 is presented. The diagnosis was made clinically and confirmed at operation. Fifty (72.5%) of the 69 patients belonged to the three to nine-month age group. There was a male preponderance, with a male to female ratio of 3.6:1. The classic triad of abdominal pain, vomiting and rectal bleeding occurred in only 11 (15.9%) patients. All 69 patients had laparotomy as reduction using barium enema was not attempted. Of the 35 patients who required resection, 27 (77.1%) had gangrenous bowel and 2 (2.8%) had perforation. Mortality was 11.6%. The high mortality rate appears to be related to the long interval between onset of symptoms and commencement of definitive treatment.