Ileoileal intussusception in children: ultrasonographic differentiation from ileocolic intussusception

The treatment of ileoileal intussusception in children differs from that of ileocolic intussusception.

To differentiate ileoileal intussusception from ileocolic intussusception using ultrasonography.

We reviewed the clinical and ultrasonographic findings in 27 patients with intussusception between September 2003 and July 2005. For statistical analysis the Mann-Whitney test was applied.

Regarding ileoileal intussusceptions, 11 were documented in ten patients (seven boys, three girls; mean age 3.1 years). Symptoms suggestive of intussusception were present in nine patients. The mean diameter was 1.5 cm (range 1.1–2.5 cm) and length 2.5 cm (range 1.5–6.0 cm). The intussusceptions were located in the paraumbilical region (n=6), the right upper quadrant (n=2), the right lower quadrant (n=2), and the left lower quadrant (n=1). Regarding ileocolic intussusceptions, 16 were documented in 14 patients (13 boys, 1 girl; mean age 1.9 years). All patients had symptoms suggestive of intussusception. The mean diameter was 3.7 cm (range 3.0–5.5 cm) and mean length was 8.2 cm (range 5.0–12.5 cm). All intussusceptions were located in the right side of the abdomen. The difference in diameter and length between ileoileal and ileocolic intussusceptions was statistically significant (P<0.05).

Unlike clinical symptoms, ultrasonography can differentiate between ileoileal and ileocolic intussusception. The diameter and length of the intussusception are the main criteria.