Ileocolic Intussusception - A rare cause of acute intestinal obstruction in adults; Case report and literature review

Abstract

Colonic Intussusception although common in children, is a rare cause of acute intestinal obstruction in adults. The etiology, clinical presentation and management of this condition is different in adults as compared to children. Pre-operative diagnosis is usually difficult due to the non specific and intermittent nature of the symptoms. CT scan can be a helpful adjunct in establishing the diagnosis. We present a case report of adult ileocolic intussusception with classical radiological signs and operative findings. A brief literature review is also presented with emphasis on the controversy of reduction of the intussusception before resection.

Figure 1

Barium enema showing a classical "claw sign".

Figure 2

CT scan of abdomen. Red arrow demonstrates a "target lesion" diagnostic of intussusception.

Figure 3

Operative picture demonstrating ileocolic intussusception.

Figure 4

Resected specimen opened up to show the presence of intussusception.