ARTERIOGRAPHIC DIAGNOSIS OF INTUSSUSCEPTION

THREE CASE REPORTS

¹ Chief of Diagnostic Radiology.

Three patients with intussusception are described in whom mesenteric arteriographic studies showed changes characteristic of this condition.

The earliest roentgenographic change seen in the arteriogram is a group of stretched, closely packed parallel vessels displaced from their normal position, with their long axis perpendicular to the direction of adjacent normal mesenteric vessels.

In more severe degrees of intussusception, the abnormal vessels become doubled back on themselves, producing the characteristic hairpin curve appearance.

The level of the intussusception can be determined by noting which branches of a particular artery are involved. The mass formed by the intussusception may itself be seen as a radiolucent area. If neoplasm is the cause of the intussusception, vessels supplying the tumor may be identified or tumor staining can occur.

Selective mesenteric arteriography can be a helpful diagnostic procedure when intussusception is suspected.

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