The 'ins' and 'outs' of intussusception: Where best practice reduces the need for surgery

Intussusception may be difficult to diagnose because the classical triad of symptoms is evident at the time of presentation in only about 20% of cases. This may lead to delays in making the correct diagnosis. The most common presenting features are colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, pallor, lethargy and listlessness. In recent years, the algorithms of management of intussusception have changed significantly: a routine plain abdominal X-ray has been replaced by ultrasonography, previously perceived contraindications to attempting an enema reduction no longer apply, gas has largely replaced barium for enema reduction, incomplete initial reduction is an indication for a delayed repeat enema if the child is stable clinically and partial reduction has been achieved, the indications for surgery have been tightened and laparoscopy affords an alternative surgical approach. This commentary expands on the rationale behind some of the recent advances in the management of children who present with suspected intussusception.