Intussusception Treatment in Mumbai

Sudden episodes of severe abdominal pain, repeated crying, vomiting, and blood-stained stools in a child should never be ignored. While these symptoms may initially seem like a stomach infection, they could indicate intussusception—a medical emergency that requires immediate diagnosis and treatment. Without timely intervention, intussusception can cut off the blood supply to the intestine, leading to bowel damage, infection, and life-threatening complications.

Intussusception is the most common cause of intestinal obstruction in children between 6 months and 3 years of age. Worldwide, it affects approximately 1–4 children per 2,000 live births, with boys being affected more frequently than girls. The encouraging news is that when diagnosed early, most children recover completely with prompt treatment, and many can avoid major surgery if managed in time.

If you are looking for expert Intussusception Treatment in Mumbai, Dr. Bhavesh Doshi, an experienced Pediatric Surgeon, provides advanced diagnosis and treatment for children with intussusception at Dhanvantari Hospital. With expertise in both non-surgical reduction techniques and emergency paediatric surgery, he offers comprehensive care focused on rapid recovery and excellent long-term outcomes.

What Is Intussusception?

Intussusception is a condition in which one part of the intestine slides into the adjacent portion of the intestine, much like the sections of a telescope folding into each other.

Many parents ask,

"Why is this dangerous?"

When the intestine folds into itself:

• The bowel becomes blocked.
• Food and fluids cannot pass normally.
• Blood supply to the affected intestine may be reduced.
• If untreated, the intestine may become damaged or perforate.

Because of these risks, intussusception is considered a paediatric surgical emergency.

What Causes Intussusception in Children?

In most young children, the exact cause is unknown.

Possible causes include:

• Swollen lymph nodes in the intestine after a viral infection
• Enlarged Peyer's patches (normal lymph tissue in the intestine)
• Meckel's diverticulum
• Intestinal polyps
• Benign intestinal tumours (rare)
• Congenital abnormalities of the intestine

In older children, a specific underlying cause is more likely to be identified.

What Are the Symptoms of Intussusception?

Symptoms often appear suddenly and may come and go in episodes.

Common signs include:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain
• Repeated episodes of intense crying in infants
• Pulling the knees toward the chest
• Vomiting
• Poor feeding
• Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
• Abdominal swelling
• Blood and mucus in the stool, often described as "red currant jelly stools"
• A sausage-shaped lump in the abdomen in some children

Parents should seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.

How Is Intussusception Diagnosed?

Many parents ask,

"How will the doctor confirm the diagnosis?"

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical examination and imaging.

Physical Examination

The doctor evaluates the child's abdomen for tenderness, swelling, or an abdominal lump.

Ultrasound Scan

Ultrasound is the preferred investigation and is highly accurate in diagnosing intussusception. It typically shows the characteristic "target sign" or "doughnut sign."

Abdominal X-ray

An X-ray may help identify intestinal obstruction or complications such as bowel perforation.

Contrast or Air Enema

In many cases, this investigation not only confirms the diagnosis but can also successfully treat the condition by gently unfolding the intestine.

How Is Intussusception Treated?

Treatment depends on the child's condition, the duration of symptoms, and whether complications have developed.

Non-Surgical Treatment

If diagnosed early and there is no bowel perforation or severe infection, the first treatment is usually:

Air or Contrast Enema Reduction

A special enema is performed under ultrasound or X-ray guidance to gently push the folded intestine back into its normal position.

This procedure is successful in many children and avoids the need for surgery.

Surgical Treatment

Many parents worry,

"When is surgery necessary?"

Surgery is recommended if:

• Enema reduction is unsuccessful.
• The bowel has perforated.
• There is severe infection.
• Blood supply to the intestine is compromised.
• An underlying abnormality is causing the intussusception.

During surgery, the affected bowel is carefully unfolded. If any part of the intestine has become non-viable due to loss of blood supply, that segment is removed, and the healthy ends are joined together.

Whenever appropriate, minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques may be used.

Recovery After Treatment

Most children recover very well after successful treatment.

Recovery usually includes:

• Observation in the hospital for one or more days
• Gradual return to feeding
• Pain management
• Monitoring for recurrence
• Follow-up visits with the paediatric surgeon

Children treated early generally resume normal activities quickly and have excellent long-term outcomes.

Why Choose Dr. Bhavesh Doshi for Intussusception Treatment in Mumbai?

Intussusception requires immediate diagnosis and prompt treatment to prevent serious complications. Dr. Bhavesh Doshi, an experienced Pediatric Surgeon, specializes in the diagnosis and management of neonatal and paediatric gastrointestinal emergencies, including intussusception.

At Dhanvantari Hospital, he provides comprehensive care for children using evidence-based treatment protocols and advanced surgical techniques. Depending on the child's condition, he offers both non-surgical reduction methods and emergency paediatric surgery when required. His extensive training in paediatric gastrointestinal surgery, combined with a compassionate approach towards children and their families, ensures timely intervention, safe treatment, and the best possible recovery.