Diagnostic challenge of the non-specific presentation of adult intussusception

A case of iatrogenic intussusception in adults: a rare case report

Background

Intussusception has a low incidence rate in adults. Many cases in adults are caused by tumors. Intussusception results from conditions other than tumors are uncommon. This is the first case report about intussusception that occurred after removing a long intestinal tube (LT).

Case presentation

A 69-year-old female complained of “recurrent abdominal pain with reduced flatus passage and frequency of bowel movement for 10 days” was admitted to the hospital. Plain abdominal radiography and abdominal CT upon admission showed intestinal obstruction. The patient’s abdominal pain was not relieved after symptomatic treatments, which involved fluid and electrolyte replacement, LT placement, spasmolytic agents, and analgesics. Hence, surgical exploration was carried out. The patient had a good recovery postoperatively. No abdominal pain or bloating developed after food intake. The patient passed flatus and had bowel movements later. On postoperative day 9, the LT was removed. On the 10th day, the patient suddenly developed abdominal distension and acute abdominal pain. Emergency abdominal CT showed small bowel intussusception. Surgical exploration was then performed. Severe small bowel dilatation located at 1.5 m from the ligament of Treitz was found during the procedure. Intussusception at the site was observed. No color change of the intestinal wall was detected, suggesting that no necrosis was present. So, a manual reduction was done. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 6.

Conclusions

This case serves as a warning that the simple action of pulling out the LT might also cause serious complications, which should be given more attention.