[Intussusception in infancy and childhood: Radiological and surgical management]

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Ileocolic intussusception is a common pediatric surgical emergency.
• Early diagnosis and prompt management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
• Abdominal ultrasonography is a highly sensitive and specific diagnostic tool.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current management of ileocolic intussusception in infants and children.
• To highlight the role of interventional radiology in reducing surgical interventions.
• To discuss the available radiological reduction techniques and their indications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and clinical guidelines on ileocolic intussusception management.
• Analysis of the efficacy and indications for both hydrostatic and air enema reduction techniques.
• Emphasis on the multidisciplinary approach involving radiology, anesthesiology, and surgery.

Main Results:

• Interventional radiology is effective in reducing ileocolic intussusceptions, decreasing the need for surgery.
• Surgery is reserved for cases with failed radiological reduction or complicated intussusceptions (e.g., peritonitis, shock).
• Both hydrostatic and air enema techniques are viable, with technique choice dependent on institutional expertise and equipment.

Conclusions:

• Current management emphasizes non-operative reduction via interventional radiology whenever possible.
• A collaborative approach among pediatric radiology, anesthesiology, and surgery teams optimizes patient care.
• Ileocolic intussusception has a very good prognosis when managed appropriately with modern techniques.