Intussusception in infancy and childhood. Analysis of 385 cases.

A consecutive series of 385 patients with intussusception treated between January 1, 1982 and December 31, 1987 was analysed. Male patients predominated over female by a ratio of 2.2:1. Seventy nine per cent of patients were under 12 months of age. There was no seasonal variation in the incidence of intussusception. Rectal bleeding was the most common symptom, followed closely by intermittent abdominal pain and vomiting. The duration of symptoms at the time of admission was less than 24 hours in 62%. Barium enema reduction was used initially in most patients. Successful reduction by barium enema alone was obtained in 66% of patients. Thirty two patients experienced recurrence of intussusception, six following operative reduction and 26 following barium enema reduction. Five patients experienced two recurrences each. Several factors including the age of the patients, the presence of a palpable mass, lethargy and abdominal distension were identified as influencing the success rate of barium enema reduction.