Clinico-Radiological Features in Corroboration With Intraoperative Findings of Intussusception in Infants-Lessons Learned From Cases Series in Remote Set Up During Overseas Deployment (East Africa)

Abstract

The incidence rate of Intussusception is higher in some developing countries, which leads to a higher rate of complications in those areas especially in children. Plain abdomen radiograph is the initial radiological examination to be done in a case of acute abdomen in a peripheral set up. Ultrasound (USG) would be best modality for initial screening even in remote areas as it has the advantages of being non-invasive, rapid, and not only cost effective but also avoids radiation exposure and easily available even in peripheral set up in today’s era. Moreover, can be done bedside, even with less experienced readers. Here, in this case series, we are discussing the clinic-radiological and intraoperative features of in intussusception in infants, while we were deployed in remote areas of Eastern Africa with limited settings. This article highlights the importance of strong clinical suspicion and timely ultrasonographic evaluation as primary screening modality in suspected cases of intussusception. USG not only confirms the diagnosis with classical signs and appearances but also help rule out other conditions mimicking the diagnosis and will decrease the risk for bowel obstruction, perforation, necrosis, and death by aiding in timely surgical intervention. In addition to this, the lesson learned from this case series is that, assessment of length of segment of bowel telescoping into the other segment will aid in deciding mode of surgical intervention.