Discharge Instructions for Intussusception
Your child was diagnosed with intussusception. This is a condition where a portion of intestine slides inside another portion. This happens in the same way that parts of a telescope slide inside each other when you close it. Blood supply to part of the intestine could then become blocked. This can cause severe damage if not treated. Intussusception can happen anywhere in the bowel. It is most common near where the large intestine and small intestine meet. The cause is often not known.
A fluid or air enema is often used to both diagnose and treat the problem. A flexible tube is used to put fluid or air into the intestine. Then, special x-rays are taken. The force of the fluid or air entering the intestine often straightens it.
Home Care
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Allow your child to return to normal activity as soon as he or she feels up to it.
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Watch your child for signs that the condition has returned. Intussusception can sometimes come back.
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Feed your child a normal diet.
Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.
When to Call Your Child’s Doctor
Call the doctor right away if your child has any of the following:
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Pain in the abdomen that comes and goes
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Vomiting
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Extreme sluggishness, tiredness, or fatigue
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Bloody stools
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Pale skin color
