Introduction: Intussusception occurs when a proximal portion of the bowel invaginates into the distal bowel. It is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children between 3 months and 3 years. This study aimed to assess patient profile, clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment and outcome in children diagnosed with intussusception in Iceland.

Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of all children diagnosed with intussusception in Iceland during a 25 year period (1986-2010). Patients were identified from a medical record database in Iceland's two main hospitals, Landspítali and Akureyri Hospital.

Results: A total of 67 children aged 3 months to 11 years (median age 8 months) were diagnosed with intussusception. Male to female ratio was 3:2. The mean incidence of intussusception was 0.4 cases per 1000 children <1 year old. Intussusception was idiopathic in 70% of patients and occurred in the ileocolic region in 94%. Barium contrast enema was the most common diagnostic test. Barium enema reduction was attempted in 82% of patients and successful reduction rate was 62%. Surgical treatment was required in 49% of patients and involved resection of bowel in 9%. Three children had recurrent intussusception.

Conclusion: The results of treatment for intussusception in Iceland are good. The decline of enemas performed and the rise in surgical treatment observed over the study period is a reason for concern. In this regard there is room for improvement.

Pétursdóttir K, Rósmundsson Th, Hannesson PH, Möller PH
University of Iceland and Landspítali The National University Hospital of Iceland