Adult intussusception detected at CT or MR imaging: clinical-imaging correlation

CT and MR Enterography in the Evaluation of Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a common inflammatory disease of the small bowel that induces mucosal intestinal lesions. The disease is mediated by an immune response and triggered by the ingestion of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. Gluten contains gliadin, a component found mostly in wheat, barley, and rye. This process leads to gastrointestinal malabsorption with symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and distention. It has a prevalence of 1%-2% in the general adult population, who present with symptoms at any age, but is more frequently found in adult women in the 3rd or 4th decade of life. Recognition of the disease has increased, but it remains a challenge to diagnose. CT and MR enterography are noninvasive studies used for evaluation of small bowel neoplasms and inflammatory small bowel pathologic conditions such as celiac disease. The authors review the spectrum of intestinal and extraintestinal findings of celiac disease at CT and MR enterography, as well as its complications, and the importance of recognizing certain imaging features that help in the diagnosis of celiac disease. More common and specific findings of celiac disease such as inversion of the jejunoileal fold pattern and mesenteric lymphadenopathy are reviewed. More uncommon entities that are more frequently associated with refractory or untreated celiac disease, such as ulcerative jejunoileitis, cavitary mesenteric lymph node syndrome, and malignancies including small bowel adenocarcinoma and lymphoma, are described. ©RSNA, 2024 Test Your Knowledge questions for this article are available in the supplemental material. The slide presentation from the RSNA Annual Meeting is available for this article.

Sustainability and Climate Protection in Radiology - An Overview

BACKGROUND

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in radiology. Besides climate protection - economic, ecological, and social aspects are integral elements of sustainability. An overview of the scientific background of the sustainability and environmental impact of radiology as well as possibilities for future concepts for more sustainable diagnostic and interventional radiology are presented below.The three elements of sustainability:1. EcologyWith an annually increasing number of tomographic images, Germany is in one of the leading positions worldwide in a per capita comparison. The energy consumption of an MRI system is comparable to 26 four-person households annually. CT and MRI together make a significant contribution to the overall energy consumption of a hospital. In particular, the energy consumption in the idle or inactive state is responsible for a relevant proportion.2. EconomyA critical assessment of the indications for radiological imaging is important not only because of radiation protection, but also in terms of sustainability and "value-based radiology". As part of the "Choosing Wisely" initiative, a total of 600 recommendations for avoiding unnecessary examinations were compiled from various medical societies, including specific indications in radiological diagnostics.3. Social SustainabilityThe alignment of radiology to the needs of patients and referring physicians is a core aspect of the social component of sustainability. Likewise, ensuring employee loyalty by supporting and maintaining motivation, well-being, and job satisfaction is an essential aspect of social sustainability. In addition, sustainable concepts are of relevance in teaching and research, such as the educational curriculum for residents in radiology, RADUCATION or the recommendations of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors.

KEY POINTS

· Sustainability comprises three pillars: economy, ecology and the social component.. · Radiologies have a high optimization potential due to a significant demand of these resources.. · A dialogue between medicine, politics and industry is necessary for a sustainable radiology.. · The discourse, knowledge transfer and public communication of recommendations are part of the sustainability network of the German Roentgen Society (DRG)..

CITATION FORMAT

· Palm V, Heye T, Molwitz I et al. Sustainability and Climate Protection in Radiology - An Overview. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2023; 195: 981 - 988.

Predictors of malignant intussusception in adults using clinical manifestations and multidetector computed tomographic findings

PURPOSE

To investigate the diagnostic performance of clinical manifestations and multidetector computed tomographic (MDCT) features in detecting predictors of malignant intussusception in adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 88 adults with 91 intussusceptions who were diagnosed by MDCT. Their clinical manifestations and MDCT features were reviewed and compared between the malignant and benign groups. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify independent predictors of malignant intussusception.

RESULTS

There were 61 patients in the malignant group and 27 patients in the benign group. The malignant group had older age (mean, 62.61 vs 54.22 years, P = 0.014), more colon-related intussusception (89.06% vs 55.56%, P < 0.001), shorter intussusception length (median, 6.53 vs 9.73 cm, P = 0.009), higher maximum short axis diameter (mean, 4.85 vs 4.10 cm, P = 0.001), more enlarged lymph nodes (40.63% vs 11.11%, P = 0.006) than the benign group. Lead points were mainly presented as masses, which were irregular (44.74%) and lobular (28.95%) in the malignant group, and round or oval (92.00%) in the benign group. On the unenhanced MDCT, 90.62% of them in the malignant group showed non-hypodense. Multivariate analysis showed that intussusception length (P = 0.013), maximum short axis diameter (P = 0.007), non-round/oval lead point (P < 0.001) and non-hypodense lead point (P = 0.030) were independent factors of malignant intussusception.

CONCLUSION

Malignant intussusception can be identified using independent predictors such as intussusception length, maximum short axis diameter, non-round/oval and non-hypodense lead point. When integrating these four factors, radiologists can make qualitative diagnoses withhigher sensitivity and specificity, allowing clinicians to develop more appropriate treatments.

Invaginación sigmoidea en un adulto. ¿Está indicada la reducción endoscópica preoperatoria?

Introducción. La invaginación intestinal o intususcepción es el deslizamiento de una parte del intestino dentro de otra adyacente. Es la causa más común de obstrucción intestinal en niños entre 3 meses y 6 años de edad, con una baja incidencia en adultos, correspondiente al 1 % del total de los cuadros obstructivos en el adulto. Su localización en colon es poco frecuente, pero conviene prestar especial atención por su asociación a lesiones malignas. Caso clínico. Varón de 39 años que acude a Urgencias con cuadro de obstrucción intestinal secundario a una invaginación en sigmoide. Se intenta reducción endoscópica, sin éxito, por lo que se indicó cirugía urgente, realizando sigmoidectomía y anastomosis colorrectal. El resultado anatomopatológico informó un adenoma de gran tamaño como causante de la invaginación. Conclusión. Existen controversias respecto al manejo endoscópico en invaginación intestinal en los adultos, especialmente en el colon, debido al elevado porcentaje de etiología tumoral maligna, recomendándose actualmente la resección en bloque sin reducción, para minimizar el riesgo de potencial siembra tumoral.

OUP accepted manuscript

Colonic intussusception is a rare occurrence in adults, with few reported cases in the literature. Patients often present with nonspecific and vague symptoms leading to diagnostic challenges and delayed treatment. Given the high incidence of underlying malignancy associated with cases of adult intussusception, it is important for clinicians to be able to recognize and coordinate appropriate follow-up. A 31-year-old female presented to the emergency department four times over a month with left lower quadrant abdominal pain. Multiple computed tomography scans showed inflammation and diverticulitis of the mid-descending colon along with a short segment of colonic intussusception. A colonoscopy was performed due to concern for malignancy. A partially obstructing mass was found in the descending colon that could not be traversed. Biopsies revealed necrosis and no evidence of malignancy. However, given high suspicion for malignancy, the patient underwent a laparoscopic left colectomy, which revealed a pT3N1b colon adenocarcinoma.

Multidetector computed tomography diagnosis of small bowel intussusceptions in adults: observations in a 10-year single-center study

BACKGROUND

The etiologies of small bowel intussusception (SBI) in adults are varied.

PURPOSE

To investigate multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) characteristics in adults with neoplastic and non-neoplastic SBI.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Clinical data and MDCT images diagnosed with SBI in adults from January 2010 to May 2020 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 71 patients. Forty-two patients had a combined total of 55 neoplastic intussusceptions, including 29 patients with benign tumors and 13 patients with malignant tumors. Twenty-nine patients had a combined total of 36 non-neoplastic intussusceptions, of which the condition was idiopathic in 23 patients and cased by non-neoplastic benign lesions in six patients. There were no significant differences in patient age or sex ratio in the neoplastic and non-neoplastic groups. In the non-neoplastic group the intussusceptions were shorter in length (3.6 cm vs. 13.2 cm, P<0.05) and smaller in transverse diameter (2.8 cm vs. 4.2 cm, P<0.05), and less likely to be associated with intestinal obstruction (2 vs. 18, P<0.05). The percentage of patients with multiple intussusceptions was greater in the neoplastic group (10/42, 23.8% vs. 4/29, 13.8%). In the non-neoplastic group only one lead point was detected (in a patient with Meckel's diverticulum), whereas lead points were detected in all 55 intussusceptions in the neoplastic group.

CONCLUSION

There are differences in the clinical and MDCT manifestations of adult neoplastic and non-neoplastic SBIs. Whether a lead point is present or not has implications with regard to deciding on the most appropriate treatment and avoiding unnecessary surgery.

Role of clinical and CT findings in the identification of adult small-bowel intussusception requiring surgical intervention

Background

In adults, intussusception has been considered traditionally to have an underlying aetiology. The aim of this study was to determine CT and clinical features of small-bowel intussusceptions that required surgical intervention.

Methods

Adult patients were identified in whom small-bowel intussusceptions were noted on CT images. The appearance, number, type (enteroenteric versus enterocolic), length and maximum short-axis diameter of intussusceptions, and presence of bowel obstruction (short-axis diameter of proximal small bowel greater than 3 cm) were analysed. The outcome was defined as surgical (complicated) or self-limiting (uncomplicated). Associations between complicated and uncomplicated intussusceptions and patient characteristics were investigated.

Results

Among 75 patients (56 male) with a mean age of 45 years, 103 intussusceptions were identified, of which 98 (95 per cent) were enteroenteric and 5 (5 per cent) enterocolic. Only 12 of 103 intussusceptions (12 per cent) in 12 of 75 (16 per cent) patients required surgical therapy and were considered to be complicated, with half of these having a neoplastic lead point. Length (P < 0.001), diameter (P < 0.001) and type (P = 0.002) of intussusception as well as presence of vessels (P = 0.023) within an intussusception on a CT scan, clinical symptoms (P = 0.007) and signs of bowel obstruction (P < 0.001) were associated with a surgical outcome.

Conclusion

Clinical symptoms, signs of bowel obstruction, type and length of intussusception, and a visible tumour within an intussusception on CT scan were critical signs of complicated intussusception, requiring surgical intervention.

Differentiation Between Surgical and Nonsurgical Intussusception: A Diagnostic Model Using Multi-Detector Computed Tomography

BACKGROUND

The differentiation of surgical from nonsurgical adult intussusception may enable the appropriate selection of management strategies.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic potential of multidetector computed tomography (MCDT) features to differentiate surgical from nonsurgical adult intussusception and develop a diagnostic model.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed on 96 patients with intussusceptions at the University Medical Center Hospital between January 2014 and January 2020. Two radiologists reviewed all images, and intussusception characteristics were documented. The location of intussusception, length, diameter, interposed fat thickness, lead point, and complications were evaluated. Based on the results, a diagnostic tree model was developed to differentiate between surgical and nonsurgical adult intussusception.

RESULTS

A total of 99 intussusceptions in 96 patients (mean age: 53.0 ± 16.5 years), including 35 (35.3%) enteroenteric, 27 (27.3%) enterocolic, and 37 (37.4%) colocolic lesions, were evaluated. Of the enteroenteric intussusceptions, 22 (62.9%) were surgical, including 19 (79.2%) with lead points. Among colon intussusceptions, 63 (98.4%) were surgical, and 100% had lead points. The characteristics used to predict surgical intussusceptions included lead point presence, length ≥ 5.0 cm, diameter ≥ 3.2 cm, interposed fat thickness ≥ 0.5 cm, and complications (p < 0.001). Based on these features, we established a diagnostic tree model that correctly classified 96 (97%) of 99 lesions.

CONCLUSION

Our study reinforces the importance of MDCT for the diagnosis and guided management of adult intussusceptions. The characteristics that predicted surgical intussusceptions included lead points, length, diameter, interposed fat thickness, and complications. A systematic approach using this diagnostic tree model could be used to distinguish surgical and nonsurgical adult intussusception.

A Case of Intussusception in a Patient with Marijuana Use: Coincidence or Possible Correlation?

'Intussusception' means invaginating or telescoping and is caused by any condition that disrupts the normal physiological mechanism of intestinal peristalsis. Intussusception is rare in adults with an incidence of two to three cases per population of 1,000,000 annually. The most common cause of intussusception in adults is a neoplasm. In this case report, we are describing the case of a 22-year-old female with a past medical history of chronic constipation and a 60-pound unintentional weight loss who presented with the sudden onset of progressively worsening, severe abdominal pain associated with nausea, episodes of non-bloody, non-bilious emesis, and dark-colored loose stools. The patient's social history was significant for extensive marijuana use for more than one year. Upon presentation, vitals were significant for mild bradycardia and examination was remarkable for diffuse abdominal pain. Initial laboratory testing was positive only for lactic acidosis. A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed small bowel intussusception in the left hemiabdomen, along with periportal edema, and a small amount of pericholecystic fluid. The patient underwent both upper endoscopy and colonoscopy but no lead points for the intussusception could be identified. The patient responded to conservative management, including bowel rest, which resulted in the resolution of the intussusception on a follow-up small bowel series. Intraluminal irritants as the possible etiology of intussusception should be considered in the absence of a pathological lead point. Marijuana has been shown to act on various bowel segments and disrupts gastrointestinal motility through inhibition of cholinergic mechanisms. We believe the chronic use of marijuana could be the possible etiology of intussusception observed in our patient. Therefore, this case brings attention to the adverse effects of marijuana in light of increasing legalization and the increasing therapeutic use of marijuana and its derivatives.

Spectrum of computed tomography manifestations of appendiceal neoplasms: acute appendicitis and beyond

Appendiceal neoplasms are rare and often only discovered incidentally during surgery performed for acute appendicitis. Computed tomography (CT) has been demonstrated to be a reliable technique for accurately establishing the preoperative diagnosis of appendiceal neoplasms that manifest as acute appendicitis through the presence of certain imaging findings. Other manifestations of appendiceal neoplasms include appendiceal mass, mucocoele, localised abscess formation, ileus, increasing abdominal girth from pseudomyxoma peritonei, and intussusception. This pictorial essay illustrates varied CT findings of neoplasms of the appendix, with emphasis on the more commonly encountered manifestations of these tumours.

Duodenal intussusception secondary to ampullary adenoma: A case report

BACKGROUND

Because the duodenum is fixed onto the retroperitoneum, duodenal intussusception is usually impossible except in cases of malrotational abnormality. Although cases of duodenal intussusception without malrotational abnormalities have been reported, it is unclear whether they constitute true intussusception or simple mucosal prolapse.

CASE SUMMARY

A 66-year-old woman presented with whole-body edema and malaise. Blood analysis indicated severe anemia and cholestasis. Endoscopic examination revealed a pedunculate polyp on the second part of the duodenum that migrated distally with mucosal elongation. Computed tomography showed duodenal intussusception. A tumor as the lead point and retroperitoneal structure, including the head of the pancreas and fat, invaginated beyond the duodenojejunal flexure. She was diagnosed with ampullary adenoma caused repeated intussusception that reduced spontaneously and underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. Laparotomy showed tumor prolapse beyond the duodenojejunal flexure without intussusception. There was no evidence of malrotational abnormality. She was discharged with no complications.

CONCLUSION

We report true duodenal intussusception without malrotational abnormality. This phenomenon was also associated with mucosal prolapse.

Intussusception secondary to inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the small intestine. Case report

Introduction: Intussusception occurs when part of the intestine slides into an adjacent intestinal segment. Inflammatory myofibroblast tumor is a rare cause of this condition, and is observed in 5% -16% cases in adults.Case presentation: A 41-year-old woman presented with abdominal pain and distension. A exploratory laparoscopy was performed, finding ileocolic intussusception into the transverse colon. Due to uncontrollable bleeding, the procedure was converted to laparotomy; resection and latero-lateral ileocolic anastomosis were performed. Histopathology reported inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, with a favorable postoperative evolution. The patient was discharged on the sixth postoperative day.Discussion: When located in the small intestine, 57% of the tumors that cause intussusception are benign, including the myofibroblastic tumor in this patient. The symptoms and signs associated with this neoplasm are cramp-like abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Although imaging studies may lead to suspect this diagnosis, in most cases it is made intraoperatively. Surgical resection of the affected intestinal segment is curative, with favorable prognosis.Conclusions: This case is considered as a rare cause of intussusception. It had a benign course and is still under study since its pathophysiology has not been fully understood.

Unusual Presentation of Duodenal Ulcer Presenting with Duodenal Intussusception

We present a unique case of duodeno-duodenal intussusception from a duodenal bulb ulcer. A 38-year-old man presented with nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Computed tomography showed duodenal intussusception. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showed a linear gastric ulcer and a duodenal bulb ulcer with an overlying blood clot. Helicobacter pylori status was positive. Intussusception resolved spontaneously without intervention. He completed treatment for H. pylori infection, and repeat EGD showed ulcer healing. Duodenal intussusception is rarely reported; intussusception from an edematous duodenal ulcer with an overlying blood clot mimicking a mass lesion acting as lead point has never been reported to our knowledge.

A Clinical Scoring System to Predict the Clinical Sequelae of Computed Tomography Diagnosed Intussusception

INTRODUCTION

Intussusception in adults is increasingly diagnosed on cross-sectional imaging with a lack of clear recommendations on management. The presence of an underlying lead point is a key to guiding management as its absence can predict spontaneous resolution. We studied adult patients with computed tomography (CT) diagnosed intussusception formulate a clinical scoring system to predict the risk of an underlying lead point.

METHODOLOGY

We performed a retrospective review of all adult patients who underwent CT scans of the abdomen and pelvis in our institution between 2001 and 2014. Independent associations of an underlying lead point were derived following multivariable analysis, from which a clinical scoring system was developed.

RESULTS

We studied 140 patients. In multivariable analysis, six factors were found to be independently associated with the presence of an underlying lead point, namely gender, abdominal pain, CT evidence of colonic involvement, CT evidence of a lead point, distal diameter ≥27 mm and minimum wall thickness ≥3 mm. A nine-point clinical scoring system was developed, with a cutoff score of four or higher yielding a sensitivity and specificity of 0.75 and 0.81, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our clinical scoring system provides a quantitative tool to predict the likelihood of an underlying lead point in CT-diagnosed intussusception in adults to help guide management.

Jejunojejunal intussusception after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in a situs inversus totalis patient: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Situs inversus totalis (SIT) is an uncommon clinical manifestation. Patients with SIT typically have malformation in the thorax and abdomen. The incidence of SIT ranges from 1/10,000 to 1/20,000 (Al-Jumaily and Hoche. J Laparoendosc Adv Surg Tech A 2001;11:229). Jejunojejunal intussusception is a rare complication after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Intussusception in adult cases accounts for 5% of adult intestinal obstruction cases, while in children, the occurrence is high and the majority of them are idiopathic cases.

CASE REPORT

Here, we present an uncommon case of jejunojejunal intussusception after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in an SIT patient. We performed reduction at the beginning and resection was done finally.

DISCUSSION

We explore the potential causes and discuss the diagnosis and therapy.

CONCLUSION

Intussusception in an SIT patient is an uncommon case. The symptoms are vague, and it is difficult to diagnose. Clinicians should be vigilant postoperatively, especially when abdominal pain after gastrointestinal surgery occurs. It is a rare case worth learning.

Adult suprapatellar pleiomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma with jejunal metastasis causing intussusception: a case report

Jejuno-jejunal intussusception is rarely encountered in adults. Management depends on the viability of the involved bowel. Exploration is favored because in adults generally an underlying 'lead point' is found to be present. Pleimorphic rhabdomyosarcoma (pRMS) arises from striated muscle cells. They are usually diagnosed during childhood and can occur virtually all over the body, controversially in places were few striated cells are found. In adults, these tumors are rare and are mostly encountered in the head-and-neck region. We present the case of a 48-year-old woman with a jejunal metastasis from a suprapatellar pRMS diagnosed 2.5 years earlier resulting in a jejuno-jejunal intussusception.

Adult intussusception: An 8 years institutional review

BACKGROUND

Intussusception is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in adults. Its diagnosis could be elusive based solely on clinical features because of protean presentation. Supplementary imaging allows for preoperative diagnosis, early institution of definitive management, and a better clinical outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Records of adults managed for intestinal obstruction by laparotomy in a surgical unit of a tertiary health facility were retrospectively examined. The subgroup having an intraoperative diagnosis of intussusception was extracted and analyzed. Data obtained included age, sex, and primary symptom at presentation. Presence of intestinal perforation, the histology of the lead point of resected tissues, and the final disposition of the patients were documented.

RESULTS

Four hundred and three patients underwent surgical management of intestinal obstruction. Eight patients (2%) had an intraoperative diagnosis of intussusception at laparotomy; four males and four females (male: female = 1:1). Abdominal pain was the presentation in 7 (87.5%) and anal protrusion in 1 (12.5%). Four patients (50%) had bowel perforation with peritonitis. Seven of the resected intestines had lead points which were benign. Two patients (25%) died from sepsis. Resection and anastomosis were done for all the patients.

CONCLUSION

Intussusception in adults is uncommon but carries a high morbidity and mortality which can be reduced with a good clinical assessment, appropriate imaging, and early laparotomy.

Inflammatory fibroid polyps of the gastrointestinal tract: a 14-year CT study at a single institution

PURPOSE

To investigate the computed tomography (CT) features of pathology-proven inflammatory fibroid polyps (IFPs) in the gastrointestinal tract.

METHODS

This retrospective series study included 27 patients with pathology-proven IFPs in the stomach (n = 16), small (n = 9), and large (n = 2) intestine, who underwent contrast-enhanced CT. Two radiologists reviewed the CT images of the patients to determine in consensus the long diameter, shape, margin, contour, and growth pattern of the lesions, the presence of an ulcer and overlying mucosal hyperenhancement, the lesion enhancement patterns including the homogeneity and the degree of contrast enhancement, and the presence of intussusception and obstruction. The CT results and clinical data of the gastric and intestinal lesions were compared.

RESULTS

The IFPs typically manifested as well-defined (89%), round or ovoid (81%), slightly lobulated-contoured (70%) masses with a purely endoluminal growth pattern (96%) and an overlying mucosal hyperenhancement (67%). Lesion homogeneity and the degree of contrast enhancement varied. The intestinal IFPs were significantly larger (3.5 vs. 2 cm), more symptomatic (82% vs. 19%), and more frequently associated with intussusception (73% vs. 0%) and obstruction (46% vs. 6%) than the gastric lesions (p ≤ 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

The characteristic CT features of IFPs were well-defined, round or ovoid, lobulated-contoured, and endoluminal masses with overlying mucosal hyperenhancement and various enhancement patterns. IFP should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients with a soft-tissue mass in the gastrointestinal tract, especially if a large endoluminal mass in the small intestine is accompanied by intussusception.

[Conservative management of adult small bowel intussusception detected at abdominal computed tomography]

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The incidence of adult small bowel intussusception detected at CT has increased with advanced imaging techniques and universal utilization of CT scan. We aimed to identify factors that could predict the necessity of surgical intervention in adult patients with small bowel intussusception detected at CT during the past decade.

METHODS

There were 39 cases of adult small-bowel intussusception detected at CT from January 2004 to June 2014. The data on clinical factors, radiological factors and outcomes were collected by retrospectively reviewing all available medical records. Patients were classified as surgical group and conservative group according to the outcome. Association between predictive factors and outcome was assessed by Fisher's exact test and logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Among a total of 39 patients, there were 32 patients (82%) in the conservative group and 7 patients (18%) in the surgical group. Spontaneous reduction was confirmed at short-term follow-up studies (abdominal ultrasonography [n=14], single contrast small bowel series [n=14], CT [n=4]) in the conservative group. No recurrence occurred during the median follow-up period of 14.1 months (range, 0-67.5 months). Patients in the surgical group had significantly higher white blood cell (WBC) counts (OR 1.001, p=0.048), more frequent obstruction (n=4 vs. n=4, p=0.022) or leading point (n=5 vs. n=0, p<0.001) and longer intussuception length (OR 1.929, p=0.032).

CONCLUSIONS

Factors associated with the necessity to resort to surgical intervention in adults with small bowel intussusceptions were higher WBC counts, presence of obstruction or leading point, and longer intussuception length. Conservative management can be considered with short-term follow-up for those without these predictive factors.

Surgical versus conservative management of adult intussusception: Case series and review

•

Adult intussusception has traditionally been considered an indication for surgery.

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Transient intussusceptions are now detected with increased use of imaging.

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In patients with low risk for underlying neoplasm, supportive care is sufficient.

•

Smaller intussusceptions are more likely to resolve with conservative treatment.

Introduction

Intussusception is the telescoping of a segment of bowel into its adjacent segment. It is a known cause of abdominal pain in the pediatric population, however, it is rare in the adult. Adults do not always present with the typical symptoms seen in young children, making the clinical diagnosis more difficult. The etiology of adult intussusception can be idiopathic, benign, or malignant. Diagnosis is most accurately made with computed tomography, which is sensitive in detecting intussusception as well as potential lead points.

Presentation of cases

This study presents four adult patients with intussusception. The first three patients are adults with idiopathic intussusception and no evidence of a lead point. The fourth case involves intussusception secondary to a jejunal carcinoid tumor which was treated surgically. Each case has unique features in terms of length and number of intussusceptions, duration of symptoms, and recurrence.

Discussion

Surgical treatment was once argued to be universally appropriate for adult intussusceptions; however, with increased use of advanced imaging, newer literature is demonstrating that this is not true in all cases. Idiopathic intussusception presents with nonspecific symptoms and can be managed with supportive care when the history and clinical picture indicate low probability of a neoplasm.

Conclusion

This study aims to raise awareness to the potential diagnosis and management of intussusceptions, particularly the symptomatic idiopathic type in the young adult.

Intussusception in Adults: The Role of MDCT in the Identification of the Site and Cause of Obstruction

Unlike pediatric intussusception, intestinal intussusception is infrequent in adults and it is often secondary to a pathological condition. The growing use of Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT) in abdominal imaging has increased the number of radiological diagnoses of intussusception, even in transient and nonobstructing cases. MDCT is well suited to delineate the presence of the disease and provides valuable information about several features, such as the site of intussusception, the intestinal segments involved, and the extent of the intussuscepted bowel. Moreover, MDCT can demonstrate the complications of intussusceptions, represented by bowel wall ischemia and perforation, which are mandatory to promptly refer for surgery. However, not all intussusceptions need an operative treatment. In this paper, we review the current role of MDCT in the diagnosis and management of intussusception in adults, focusing on features, as the presence of a leading point, that may guide an accurate selection of patients for surgery.

Adult intussusception

Recurrent abdominal pain is a common and challenging presenting chief complaint in the Emergency Department. Intussusception in adults, although rare, is an important etiology to consider. The diagnosis can often be delayed because of the nonspecific and intermittent nature of symptoms in adults. This report presents the case of a 37-year-old man with multiple Emergency Department visits for abdominal pain and with negative results for prior imaging studies, who was eventually diagnosed with intussusception after 5 years of recurrent symptoms. The case study is followed by a review of the literature regarding the diagnosis and management of intussusception in adults.

Intussusception of rectosigmoid colon cancer mimicking a pedunculated tumor

Intussusception in adults is a rare phenomenon involving the colon in approximately 20% of cases. A 65-year-old man was hospitalized with anorexia, anemia, dehydration, and melena. Digital rectal examination revealed a palpable mass approximately 5 cm from the anal verge. The mass moved between the rectosigmoid colon and the rectum below the peritoneal reflection during radiographic examinations and during sigmoidoscopy. We strongly suspected a rectosigmoid pedunculated tumor and performed a low anterior resection. Intraoperatively we observed intussusception of the rectosigmoid colon with easy manual reduction. The tumor was palpable in the rectosigmoid colon. The postoperative course was uneventful. This case illustrates intussusception of a rectosigmoid type 1 colon adenocarcinoma mimicking a pedunculated tumor.

Transient small bowel intussusception in adults: an overlooked feature of coeliac disease

Coeliac disease is the commonest immunological gastrointestinal disorder in the Western world. The symptoms of coeliac disease in adults are often non-specific, and a high index of suspicion may be required for timely diagnosis. We describe the case of a 46-year-old woman, with known dilated cardiomyopathy and pulmonary hypertension, who presented with non-specific abdominal symptoms, not initially attributed to gastrointestinal disease. Radiological investigations demonstrated transient small bowel intussusception without other abnormality, leading to the suggestion of coeliac disease as a cause, which was subsequently confirmed as the diagnosis.

Jejunal intussusception: a rare cause of an acute abdomen in adults

Abdominal pain secondary to intussusception is a common presentation in the paediatric population but rare in adults. Diagnosis is often difficult due to non-specific signs and symptoms. Adult intussusception presents more insidiously with intermittent abdominal pain and signs and symptoms of an acute abdomen are rare. In children, the aetiological factor is usually idiopathic, whereas intussusception in adults is more commonly due to an underlying pathology giving rise to a lead point. Consequently the treatment of choice is different-while it is supportive in children, surgical management is typically indicated in adults. In addition, the causes of a lead point precipitating adult intussusception are different depending on whether they arise from the small or large bowel. This report presents a case of jejunal intussusception in a 30-year-old man with a characteristic CT scan who required exploratory laparotomy and small bowel resection.

Prolapsed giant sigmoid lipoma: a rare cause of adult ischaemic intussusception

Intussusception is a rare cause of obstruction in adults and has a variable, non-specific presentation. Adult intussusception is usually associated with an underlying organic pathology, such as a benign or malignant tumour which acts as the lead point. Prolapse of the lead-point mass through the anal canal is an extremely rare presentation with very few reported cases in the literature. We describe a case of a 67-year-old man who presented with rectal prolapse of a large soft tissue mass. CT of the abdomen and barium enema revealed partial intussusception of an upper sigmoid lipomatous polyp. Examination under anaesthesia was performed and the prolapse reduced. A laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy was planned. The patient subsequently re-presented clinically unwell with a recurrent necrotic prolapsing mass. Laparotomy and sigmoid colectomy was performed and the patient recovered fully. The resected mass was a 7×4.5×4.0 cm necrotic sigmoid lipoma.

Resolution of intussusception after spontaneous expulsion of an ileal lipoma per rectum: a case report and literature review

We herein report a case of spontaneous rectal expulsion of an ileal lipoma in a 65-year-old female patient who presented with recurrent attacks of subacute intestinal obstruction. During each episode, the patient developed severe abdominal pain and expelled a fleshy mass from her rectum. The fleshy mass was histopathologically diagnosed as a lipoma comprising fat cells, fibers, and blood vessels. Upon expulsion, the pain disappeared and the intussusception was immediately resolved. Colonoscopic examination revealed a 2.5-cm diameter ulcerated lesion near the ileocecal valve, which was confirmed to be inflammation by pathological examination. A subsequent barium series revealed a normal colonic tract, and the patient remained completely symptom-free for 4 months after the incident. According to the relevant literature and our clinical experience, the treatment method for a lipoma depends on the patient’s clinical manifestations and the size of the tumor. However, the various diagnostic and therapeutic modalities currently available continue to be debated; whether an asymptomatic lipoma requires treatment is controversial. When histopathological examination results allow for the exclusion of malignant lesions such as sarcoma, a lipoma can be resected surgically.

Renal cell carcinoma presenting as small bowel obstruction secondary to a metastatic ileal intussusception

We report a rare clinical presentation of renal cell carcinoma in the form of small bowel obstruction which was secondary to a metastatic ileal intussusception. Intussusception in the elderly is most commonly due to an underlying neoplasm, however metastases from a renal cell carcinoma is very uncommon. We present clinical details, radiological and pathological findings of the case followed by a discussion of the diagnosis and management of intussusception in the adult population.

Intermittent adult ileocecal intussusception: a case report and review of literature

We report the case of a 56-year-old male patient who was admitted to the emergency department with crescendo abdominal pain since 2 weeks. In the past 2 years, similar but less pronounced episodes were present, each time resolving spontaneously after spasmolytic drugs. Abdominal ultrasound revealed an ileocecal intussusception. An attempt for preoperative reduction was partially successful. A colonoscopy was performed and showed a tubulovillous adenomatous polyp with high-grade dysplasia, but subsequent right hemicolectomy revealed an underlying cecal adenocarcinoma. The combination of the low incidence and the non-specific symptoms of ileocecal intussusception in the adult makes this entity difficult to diagnose. In most cases, modern imaging techniques such as CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI make the correct preoperative diagnosis. Especially when colonic involvement is present, suspicion of a malignant lead point (i.e. culprit lesion) is primordial. The therapeutic strategy depends on several variables and asks for a patient-tailored, selective approach mostly involving surgery. Based on this case and a short review of literature, we discuss the clinical presentation, diagnostic tools, treatment, and challenges of adult ileocecal intussusception.

Colorectal cancer emergencies

INTRODUCTION

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common type of malignancy encountered in the United States. A significant proportion of patients with CRC will seek emergency medical care during the course of their illness and treatment.

BACKGROUND

Emergent presentations can be the result of either local tumor invasion, regional progression, or therapeutic techniques. Specific complications of CRC which present emergently include rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and bowel obstruction. Less common issues encountered include malignant ascites, neutropenic enterocolitis, and radiation enteropathy.

CONCLUSION

The care of CRC patients in the setting of an acute severe illness typically requires the joint efforts of the emergency medical team in consultation with surgical, medical, and radiation oncology. A high degree of suspicion for the typical and atypical complications of CRC is important for all clinicians who are responsible for the care of these patients.

Adult intussusception of appendicular mucinous cystoadenoma

Intussusception is a rare cause of adult intestinal obstruction. Clinical manifestations are not specific, which makes a preoperative diagnosis difficult to establish and often causes delay. We report a case of acute intestinal obstruction due to ileocolic intussusception. An emergency laparoscopy was performed revealing an obstructive mass at the ileocecal region resulting from an appendicular tumor. A right hemicolectomy was conducted. The pathologic examination of the resected sample concluded the mass comprised an appendicular mucinous cystoadenoma. We discuss the clinical features, preoperative diagnosis, and surgical strategies of adult intussusception, as well as the uncommon finding of an appendicular mucinous tumor as its causative lesion, with a review of the available literature.

Surgical Alternatives in the Treatment of Intestinal Intussusceptions Resulting from Polyps in Adults

Adult intussusception is an uncommon disease requiring surgical intervention. The aim of this study is to discuss the surgical alternatives and share our experience in the treatment of adult patients with intussusceptions formed as a result of polyps. The retrospective study included 16 adult patients who underwent surgery after the diagnosis of intestinal invaginations resulting from polyps between the years 2000 and 2011. Sixteen patients (seven males and nine females; mean age, 48.18 years; range, 18 to 76 years) presented with intestinal intussusceptions. Although a preoperative diagnosis was carried out in 11 (68.75%) patients, the diagnosis was made intra-operatively in five patients (31.25%). Among the patients, seven (43.8%) had undergone emergency surgeries and nine (52.8) had elective surgery. The invagination in 12 patients (75%) was located in the small intestine, in two patients (12.5%) in the colon, and in a further two patients (12.5%), it was ileocecally located. Ten patients (62.5%) had segmental resection 1 anastomosis; three patients underwent (18.8%) segmental resection 1 enterostomy, and three (18.8%) received hemicolectomies. In adults, surgical treatment is always the primary option in intussusceptions resulting from polyps. Although the surgical method of choice in colonically located ones is en bloc resection without reduction, because the polyps located in the small intestine are usually of a benign nature, segmental resection with reduction should be performed in elective surgery and segmental resection without reduction should be performed in emergency cases.

Idiopathic adult colo-colonic intussusception: Case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

Acute colonic intussusception occurring in the absence of organic cause is uncommon in adults.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We report acute colonic intussusception in a 46-year-old female; clinical evidence of a palpable mass, abdominal pain and bloody mucoid stools appeared a few hours after hospital admission. Multislice CT-scan confirmed the clinical diagnosis and surgical exploration revealed right colonic obstruction caused by intussusception of the cecum into the ascending colon. Right hemicolectomy was performed and histopathological examination did not reveal any causative pathology.

DISCUSSION

Intussusception remains a rare condition in adults, representing 1-5% of bowel obstruction and accounting for 0.003-0.02% of all hospital admissions. Intussusception occurs more frequently in the small (50-80%) than in the large bowel (12-50%). It is estimated that approximately 90% of intussusceptions in adults are secondary to an anatomical or pathological condition, of which more than half are malignant. Idiopathic cases are the exception in adults. The clinical presentation of adult intussusception differs considerably from the classic pediatric presentation of abdominal pain, palpable mass, and blood per rectum, which is rarely seen in adults. A pre-operative CT-scan showed a 10cm intussuscepted segment of right colon. Surgical resection was considered mandatory because of severe bowel obstruction, and the theoretical possibility of occult malignancy. This approach was vindicated by the presence of widespread ischemic lesions in the wall of the resected bowel, without any obvious lead point.

CONCLUSION

There are few reports in the medical literature of acute colonic intussusception occurring in the absence of organic cause in adults.

Adult colonic intussusception: Surgery still the best option

Intussusception is the telescoping of proximal bowel wall into the lumen of a distal segment. Whilst it is common in children, intussusception in adults is rare, and predominantly occurs secondary to an underlying malignant neoplasm. Abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) is preferred for detection of lead points and lesion localisation. We present the case of a 79-year-old female with a four-day history of colicky abdominal pain followed by obstipation and distension. CT demonstrated a rounded heterogeneous density protruding into the upper rectal lumen, and also left-sided colonic obstruction. Emergency laparotomy revealed a mid-sigmoid colonic mass intussuscepting into the rectum. Histopathology confirmed a T3N1 moderately differentiated colonic adenocarcinoma. Given the high likelihood of underlying malignancy, surgical reduction of the intussusceptum may be complicated by perforation and tumour spillage. En bloc resection using oncologic surgical principles remains the first line treatment.

Adult Intussusception Caused by Descending Colon Cancer during Chemotherapy of Stomach Cancer Recurrence

Intussusception in adults is uncommon, and it is rare in the descending colon because of its fixation to the retroperitoneum. We herein describe a case of intussusception caused by descending colon cancer. A 74-year-old man was admitted to our hospital for treatment of vomiting and abdominal pain. He had undergone chemotherapy for lymph node recurrence of stomach cancer for about 4 years. Computed tomography revealed a ‘target mass’ with a tumor in the descending colon. We diagnosed his illness as intussusception of a descending colon tumor and performed emergency laparotomy. Conservative resection was performed following anastomosis after reduction of the intussusception. The tumor was pathologically diagnosed as poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with neuroendocrine features. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an intussusception caused by descending colon cancer incidentally diagnosed during chemotherapy for stomach cancer recurrence.

Intussusception in adults: what radiologists should know

Adult intussusception (AI) is a rare entity with an organic lesion within the intussusception in 70-90% of the cases. Intussusception is classified according to location, etiology, and to the presence or not of a lead point. We illustrate several causes of AI with a variety of radiological findings on plain film, ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance, and endoscopy seen at our institution. Imaging plays a major role in their diagnosis and in determining the appropriate treatment.

Adult intussusception in the last 25 years of modern imaging: is surgery still indicated?

BACKGROUND

Because most adult intussusceptions are reportedly due to malignancy, operative treatment is recommended. With current availability of computed tomography, we questioned the role of mandatory operative exploration for all adult intussusceptions.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective review of all adults treated from 1983 to 2008 at a large tertiary referral center for intussusception.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-six patients had intussusception over the 25-year study period. Computed tomography was obtained in 60% of patients. Neoplasms [malignant, (21%); benign, (24%)] were the commonest etiology; 30% cases were idiopathic. One hundred twenty (61%) patients underwent operative treatment for intussusception. Six of the 58 idiopathic or asymptomatic cases were operated on with negative findings in all. Palpable mass (OR 4.56, p < 0.035), obstructive symptoms (OR 9.13, p < 0.001) or obstruction (OR 9.67, p < 0.001), GI bleeding (OR 14.41, p < 0.001), and a lead point on computed tomography (OR 10.08, p < 0.001) were associated with the need for operation.

CONCLUSION

In the current era of computed tomography, idiopathic or asymptomatic intussusception is being seen more commonly; however, the majority of adult intussusceptions still have pathologic lead points. From our experience, all patients with palpable mass, obstructive symptoms or obstruction, gastrointestinal bleeding, or a lead point on computed tomography should undergo operative exploration.

Laparoscopic resection of a small bowel lipoma with incidental intussusception

Small bowel lipomas, which can cause intussusception and gastrointestinal bleeding, can be managed with laparoscopic resection when diagnosed preoperatively.

Background:

Small bowel tumors are rare entities that often present with nonspecific symptoms. The diagnosis is more likely in patients with occult gastrointestinal bleeding of unknown origin or in adults with small bowel intussusception. Even with exhaustive diagnostic testing, small bowel tumors are often not diagnosed preoperatively. Because 60% to 70% of small bowel tumors are malignant, surgical excision is always recommended.

Methods:

We report the case of a 73-year-old man with occult gastrointestinal bleeding. A small bowel tumor was discovered only after video capsule endoscopy, computed tomography, and multiple endoscopies were performed.

Results:

The patient underwent laparoscopic exploration. An incidental intussusception made the tumor simple to identify. By extending the umbilical port, the tumor was easily removed. The final pathology demonstrated a submucosal lipoma.

Conclusions:

Small bowel lipomas can cause intussusception and gastrointestinal bleeding. When diagnosed preoperatively, laparoscopic resection is feasible.

Beyond appendicitis: common and uncommon gastrointestinal causes of right lower quadrant abdominal pain at multidetector CT

Right lower quadrant abdominal pain is one of the most common causes of a patient visit to the emergency department. Although appendicitis is the most common condition requiring surgery in patients with abdominal pain, right lower quadrant pain can be indicative of a vast list of differential diagnoses and is thus a challenge for clinicians. Other causes of right lower quadrant pain beyond appendicitis include inflammatory and infectious conditions involving the ileocecal region; diverticulitis; malignancies; conditions affecting the epiploic appendages, omentum, and mesentery; and miscellaneous conditions. Multidetector computed tomography (CT) has emerged as the modality of choice for evaluation of patients with several acute traumatic and nontraumatic conditions causing right lower quadrant pain. Multidetector CT is an extremely useful noninvasive method for diagnosis and management of not only the most common causes such as appendicitis but also less common conditions.