Prenatal diagnosis of intrauterine intussusception by ultrasonography

Abstract

Objective To discuss the prenatal ultrasound manifestations of intrauterine intussusception. Methods An analysis of prenatal ultrasound findings and postnatal features was performed on five cases of fetuses with intrauterine intussusception that were identified by ultrasonography at Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, in the period of January 2014 to December 2016. Results The 5 fetuses with intrauterine intussusception were diagnosed based on the typical ″target sign″, ″telescope sign″, ″doughnut sign″ and ″crescent-in-doughnut sign ″in ultrasonography. Indirect and non-specificultrasonographic signs included dilatation of intestine and ascites. Three cases of emergency caesarian section were performed, and infants underwent surgeries. The intraoperative findings confirmed the prenatal diagnosis, and postoperativelythe infantsrecovered uneventfully. In another 2 cases, whichwere suspected the presence of meconium peritonitis, fetus prematurely bornvia a spontaneous vaginal delivery, and the intraoperative findings confirmed the prenatal diagnosis. However, intestinal atresia occurred, and the neonates died postoperatively. Conclusions Fetuses with intrauterine intussusceptionshad characteristic ″target sign″, ″telescope sign″, ″doughnut sign″ and ″crescent-in-doughnut sign″ in ultrasonography. Ultrasonography may be used as the first choice for prenatal diagnosis of this disease. Prenatal diagnosis of intrauterine intussusception can provide guidance for clinical obstetrical management and postnatal treatment. Key words: Ultrasonography, prenatal; Fetus; Congenital abnormalities; Intrauterineintussus ception