Postoperative intussusception, causal or casual relationships?

Postoperative intussusception (POI) is a recognised but uncommon condition. Primary intussusception has been reported several times from Africa, but there are only two reports of postoperative intussusception. A literature review on POI was performed by searching the Medline between 1966 and 1998 together with relevant references in publications on the subject. Postoperative intussusception occurs within a month of an operation. It differs from primary intussusception. No specific aetiology has been found. Predisposing factors based on disorder of peristalsis have been proposed. At risk are patients with prolonged postoperative ileus after prolonged surgery with extensive dissection or after a postoperative regimen of radiation and/or chemotherapy. The diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion. Contrast radiology is not reliable in the diagnosis. The preferred treatment is operative reduction, but resection may be indicated. There are no reports of recurrence after surgical treatment. Preventive measures include gentle handling and avoidance of drying of intestines at operation. The paucity of reports from Africa may mean that the diagnosis is being overlooked.