Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
low

Perforation can occur as a result of bowel-wall ischaemia and necrosis in the intussusception or as a complication of attempted contrast enema (air or contrast reagent) reduction. The rate of perforation at the time of presentation in developed countries is 1% to 3% and usually relates to a delay in diagnosis.[41]​ Approximately 10% of cases of intussusception require bowel resection.[3][34]

Perforation after attempted contrast enema reduction occurs in 0% to 6% of cases; a figure of approximately 1% is expected for experienced radiologists.[36]

These surgical emergencies require prompt surgical evaluation, operative reduction of the intussusception, and resection of threatened non-viable bowel.

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