Pediatric intussusception in Uganda: differences in management and outcomes with high-income countries

Abstract

PurposeIn high-income countries the presentation and treatment of intussusception is relatively rapid, and most cases are correctable with radiographically-guided reduction. In low-income countries, many delays affect outcomes and surgical intervention is required. This study characterizes the burden and outcome of pediatric intussusception in Uganda. MethodsProspective case series of intussusception cases from May 2015 to July 2016 at a tertiary referral hospital in Uganda. ResultsForty patients were included in the study. Male to female ratio was 3:2. Average duration of symptoms before presentation was 4.5 days. Median duration of symptoms in referred patients was 4 days and 2 days in non-referred patients (P value 0.0009). All 40 patients underwent surgical treatment: 25% had resection and enterostomy, 15% had resection and primary anastomosis, 2.5% had resection, primary anastomosis and enterostomy and 57.5% underwent manual reduction. Mortality was 32% and febrile patients on admission were 20 times more likely to die (P value 0.040). ConclusionIntussusception carries a high operative and mortality rate in Uganda. Referred patients presented later than non-referred patients to health facilities. Fever on examination at admission was positively associated with mortality. This disease remains a target for quality metrics in global pediatric surgery. Type of studyDiagnostic study. Level of EvidenceIII