Intussusception in adults

Abstract

Intestinal intussusception in adults is a very rare entity whose etiology differs greatly from its pediatric counterparts. Three adult patients with intestinal intussusception presented with intestinal obstruction and required surgery for its resolution. In each case a pathologic cause was found. They had intestinal polyps, two benign (lipoma and hamartomatous polyps) and one malignant (metastasis). Intestinal intussusception in adults usually has a pathologic cause. About half have a malignant etiology. Intestinal resection without reduction of the intussusception is the preferred surgical procedure.