Intussusception Treatment
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- Overview
- What It Is
- Causes
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- Symptoms
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- Complications
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- Care Guide
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How to Treat Intussusception
Air Enema
In many cases, giving an air enema will correct intussusception. Air enema is preferred over water-soluble contrast or barium enema. This is often the preferred treatment when intussusception occurs in infancy. However, the test may occasionally cause a perforation to occur in the bowel. No form of enema should be done if the doctors know the bowel is perforated.
Surgery
Surgery may be required to release the trapped portion of the bowel and to clear the obstruction. If any bowel tissue has died due to gangrene, that part of the bowel may need to be removed.
After any treatment, intussusception may recur.
Antibiotics may be administered and a nasogastric tube placed prior to attempted reduction.
If you are diagnosed with intussusception, follow your doctor's instructions.
