What is an important complication of untreated intussusception?

Intussusception occurs when a segment of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent segment, leading to obstruction and potential ischemia. One of the significant complications that can arise from untreated intussusception is perforation of the bowel. When blood supply is compromised due to the intussusception, it can lead to necrosis of the involved bowel segment. This necrosis, if left untreated, can progress to perforation, resulting in the release of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, which can cause peritonitis and is a surgical emergency.

While ischemia is indeed a concern due to reduced blood flow, it often is a precursor to perforation. Dehydration can occur in cases of bowel obstruction and vomiting due to intussusception, but it is a more indirect consequence rather than a direct complication. Diverticulitis is unrelated to intussusception, as it pertains to inflammation of diverticula in the colon, which is a separate condition altogether. Thus, the most acute and life-threatening complication in the context of untreated intussusception is indeed perforation.