The major complication of intussusception is ______ of the bowel.

The major complication of intussusception is necrosis of the bowel. This condition occurs when a part of the intestine telescopes into an adjacent segment, leading to compromised blood flow to the affected area. As the blood supply becomes occluded, the tissue can begin to die, resulting in necrosis. The ischemic bowel leads to serious complications if not addressed promptly, including perforation and potential systemic infection.

Necrosis signifies a critical condition where the affected bowel tissue can become non-viable, necessitating surgical intervention. While intussusception can also lead to obstruction and may cause perforation due to tissue death, the direct and immediate threat posed by compromised blood flow is the characteristic feature of necrosis. Understanding this can help in recognizing the urgency for treatment and the potential severity of outcomes associated with this gastrointestinal emergency.