Nonavailability of Ultrasound: Try Stethoscope in Pneumatic Reduction

This study aimed to finding alternative ways for centers with nonavailability of ultrasonography or fluoroscopy for nonoperative pneumatic reduction of intussusceptions.

A total of 48 cases of intussusceptions were included in the study in-between October 2016 and March 2018. We tried stethoscope-guided pneumatic reduction using locally assembled equipment. The intraluminal pressure was monitored and maintained below 100 mmHg. A total of two attempts of 3 min each were allowed. We compared our results with the control group who have been performing laparotomy for every case of intussusception.

There were 35 males and 13 females in our study. The average age of the patients was 7.5 months. Intussusceptions were reduced in 38 (80%) patients but could not be reduced in 10 (20%) patients. Majority of the intussusceptions had symptoms of at least 2 days. There were no complications such as perforation in our study.

Stethoscope-guided pneumatic reduction seems to be a feasible and alternative effective method for the treatment of intussusceptions in children where availability of ultrasonography and skilled radiologist with overburden of work is a great issue.