Leveraging the National Rotavirus Surveillance Network for Monitoring Intussusception.

OBJECTIVE

To assess feasibility of monitoring intussusception by hospitals participating in the National Rotavirus Surveillance Network.

METHODS

Questionnaire-based survey in 28 hospitals. One hospital with electronic records selected for detailed data analysis.

RESULTS

There was 75% response to the questionnaire. Few network hospitals were suitable for monitoring intussusception in addition to ongoing activities, but there was at least one potential sentinel hospital in each region. The hospital selected for detailed data analysis of cases of intussusception reported an incidence rate of 112 per 100,000 child years in infants. Over 90% of intussusceptions were managed without surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Selection of sentinel hospitals for intussusception surveillance is feasible and necessary, but will require training, increased awareness and referral.