Intussusception

Abstract

Intussusception is a rare cause of bowel obstruction in adults, but occurs more frequently in children. The underlying pathophysiology is thought to be a peristaltic contraction that carries a segment of proximal bowel (“lead point”) into distal bowel like a rolled-up sock. In an adult, a search must be made for the etiology of the lead point especially in patients with a virgin abdomen. This overview focuses on the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of intussusception with focus on differentiating the self-limited, benign process from acute conditions requiring surgical intervention.