invaginaatioista

Invaginaatio, also known as intussusception, is a medical condition where a portion of the intestine slides into an adjacent part of the intestine. This telescoping action can obstruct the bowel and cut off blood supply, leading to serious complications if not treated promptly. It is most common in infants and young children, typically between the ages of 6 months and 3 years, although it can occur at any age.

The exact cause of invaginaatio is often unknown in children, but it is frequently preceded by a viral illness that causes swelling of the intestinal lining. In older children and adults, underlying conditions such as tumors, polyps, or surgical adhesions are more likely to be the cause. Symptoms can include sudden onset of severe, colicky abdominal pain that comes and goes, vomiting, and the passage of blood and mucus in the stool, often described as "currant jelly" stool.

Diagnosis is typically made through imaging techniques such as ultrasound, which is highly effective in identifying invaginaatio. Other methods may include abdominal X-rays or a barium enema. Treatment depends on the severity and duration of the condition. In many cases, a non-surgical reduction can be performed using air or contrast enema under radiological guidance. If this is unsuccessful or if there are signs of complications like perforation or bowel obstruction, surgical intervention is necessary to manually separate the telescoped segments of the intestine and remove any damaged tissue. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for a favorable outcome.