Intestinal intussusception in elderly patients

Maturitas. 2009 Feb 20;62(2):124-6. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2008.11.007. Epub 2008 Dec 31.

Abstract

Intussusception is the most common cause of bowel obstruction in children, but it is a very rare cause of bowel obstruction in the elderly. Diagnosis is based on a high index of suspicion, complete anamnestic recall, physical examination, and imaging modalities. We find abdominal CT scans to be highly sensitive and accurate for making the diagnosis. Treatment of intussusception in adults is always surgical. Segmental bowel resection must be performed. The extent of resection should include any nonviable bowel as well as the leading point of the intussusception. We present a case of an 82-year-old patient with ileo-cecal intussusception, followed by a discussion of the diagnostic and therapeutic options.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Humans
  • Ileal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ileal Diseases / surgery*
  • Ileocecal Valve / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ileocecal Valve / surgery
  • Intestinal Obstruction / etiology
  • Intussusception / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intussusception / surgery*
  • Male
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed