Ileocecal intussusception is a medical condition where a section of the intestine invaginates into another section, leading to an obstruction. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription: /ɪliəʊ-siːkəl ɪntəˈsʌsɛpʃən/. This word is composed of several syllables. The first syllable, "ileocecal," is pronounced with stress on the second syllable, and the second syllable, "intussusception," is pronounced with stress on the third syllable. With its complex pronunciation and spelling, this medical term can be challenging to remember for those not familiar with the field.
Ileocecal intussusception is a medical condition characterized by the telescoping or invagination of a section of the intestine, specifically the ileum, into the cecum. The ileum is the final portion of the small intestine, while the cecum is the first part of the large intestine.
In this condition, the affected segment of the ileum folds inward and gets trapped within the opening of the cecum, leading to the obstruction or blockage of the intestinal passage. This blockage disrupts the normal flow of digested food, fluids, and gases through the intestine, leading to a variety of symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, bloody stool, vomiting, and a palpable mass in the lower abdomen.
Ileocecal intussusception is more commonly seen in young children, usually between six months and two years of age, though it can occur at any age. The exact cause of this condition is often unknown, but it is frequently associated with underlying bowel abnormalities, such as polyps, tumors, or inflammation.
Prompt medical intervention is necessary to diagnose and treat ileocecal intussusception. Treatment usually involves a combination of nonsurgical techniques, such as an air or fluid enema to try to reduce the intussusception, followed by a surgical intervention if the initial attempts are unsuccessful or if complications arise.
If left untreated, ileocecal intussusception can lead to tissue damage, bowel perforation, and infection. Therefore, immediate medical attention is crucial to relieve the obstruction and prevent serious complications.
A form in which the lower segment of the ileum passes through the valve of the colon into the cecum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "ileocecal intussusception" is a medical term that describes a condition in which one segment of the intestine telescopes into another segment, causing a blockage.
The term is derived from the combination of several root words:
1. Ileo-: This prefix comes from the Latin word "ileum", which refers to the lowest part of the small intestine.
2. Cecal: It is derived from the word "cecum", which refers to the pouch-shaped first part of the large intestine.
3. Intussusception: This word comes from the Latin roots "intra" meaning "within" and "suscipere" meaning "to receive". It describes the process of one part of the intestine slipping or telescoping into another part.