CHRONIC INTUSSUSCEPTION IN CHILDHOOD

A rare case of chronic intussusception is reported. Radiological inves tigation including ultrasound, CT and barium enema provided the correc t diagnosis. Ultrasound revealed a solid mass near the transverse colo n in the right lower abdomen. Ct demonstrated the real nature of the s olid mass as being the classical 'coiled spring' of intussusception. T he barium enema was unsuccessful as an attempt at hydrostatic reductio n, but confirmed the diagnosis by a 'cresent-shaped' filling defect in the ascending colon. The patient was discharged after an uneventful s urgery and recovery. No organic lesion that precipitated the chronic i ntussusception was discovered at operation. Radiological findings, the typical clinical picture and adequate treatment are discussed.