Enteroenteric intussusception: CT findings in nine patients

Abstract

The CT scans in nine proven cases of enteroenteric intussusception were analyzed. Three different CT patterns were observed: a target lesion (n = 5), a reniform mass (n = 2), and a sausage-shaped mass with alternating layers of low and high attenuation (n = 2). Small-bowel series were available within 2-4 days of CT in eight patients and were positive in five. Surgical proof of intussusception was available in seven of the nine patients. Resected small-bowel specimens from patients with the reniform configuration revealed focal ischemic changes. Other objective parameters of ischemia such as acidosis and hyperamylasemia were also present in the two patients with reniform masses. Such changes were not evident in the other patients. This suggests that intussusceptions with reniform configurations warrant more urgent surgical attention. The varying patterns of intussusception on CT should be recognized so that appropriate management can be initiated.