Ultrasonographic diagnosis and ultrasonic reduction of intussusception in Nnewi, South-East Nigeria

Background: Intussusception is a common cause of intestinal obstruction among infants. Delayed diagnosis and treatment worsen the outcome with possible mortality. At present, ultrasonography is the preferred tool for both diagnosis and treatment for select cases. It is also useful in the diagnosis of comorbidities and as a guide to pneumatic and hydrostatic reduction of intussusception. Aim: The aim of this study is to evaluate the ultrasound features of intussusceptions and to correlate its findings with surgical findings at a tertiary health-care facility. Materials and Methods: This is a retrospective study carried out at Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, South-east Nigeria, between 2014 and 2016. Data were extracted from case notes, theater records, and radiology, and the following domains were explored: sociodemographic data, ultrasound findings, and intraoperative findings. The data obtained were recorded in an Excel Spreadsheet and were analyzed using the SPSS software version 20, and the results were reviewed in tables and charts. Results: A total of 15 patients that met the inclusion criteria were used for this study. There were more males than that of females, and the peak age was between 4 and 6 months. Most of the patients were scanned and operated after 24 h from the onset of symptoms. The most common presenting symptom was vomiting, and most of the masses were in the right hemiabdomen. Conclusion: The sensitivity of ultrasound in our study was 100%, and this correlates with the findings in other studies. The use of ultrasound early in patients with increased clinical suspicion will, therefore, help to reduce the unnecessary delays in intervention and therefore reduce the complications.