This condition, which most commonly occurs in infants aged 4-12 months but can occur regardless of age, is characterized by profuse bleeding with the consistency of strawberry jelly and occasional abdominal pain. These symptoms are often associated with the baby’s stools, which may contain bright red, liquid blood.
Constipation or frequent diarrhea can also be a symptom of this condition. Initially, the child may be calm in the midst of pain. However, if these symptoms are not recognized early, vomiting and abdominal distension may come first, followed by fever and weakness. The patient becomes very tired due to dehydration.
This condition can be described as intestinal obstruction. Usually the cause is not clearly known. In older children, it can be caused by small intestinal polyps, masses or congenital structures (such as diverticula).
Treatment Approaches
First of all, the general condition of the patient should be stabilized and fluid and electrolyte loss should be eliminated. Treatment is carried out in three stages. It starts with the first stage, and if no results are obtained at this stage, the second stage is initiated, and if insufficient, the third stage is initiated.
Phase 1 (Non-Surgical Treatment)
It includes steps to free the intestine from its intertwined state. First of all, fluid or air pressure is applied through the anus to restore the intestines to their former position under the guidance of imaging methods.
The most commonly used method is the administration of fluid through the anus under ultrasound guidance. Most patients (85-90%) who present within the first 24-48 hours can be treated with this method. If no results are obtained at this stage and the patient’s condition is favorable, another attempt can be made. However, if successful results are not obtained at this stage, the patient may need surgical intervention.
Stage 2 (Surgical Intervention)
If non-surgical treatment is not successful or if symptoms appear after a long period of time, direct surgical intervention may be necessary. During this surgery, the intestines are manually straightened.
Stage 3 (Surgical Intervention)
If attempts at surgical correction are not successful, the affected section of intestine is removed and the intestines are reconnected. This step can be performed more often, especially in delayed cases.
