Nonfluoroscopic reduction of intussusception by air enema

Intussusception is a common pediatric condition in China. Hydrostatic reduction with barium sulfate or pneumatic reduction using air and fluoroscopy has become the standard method in most centers throughout the world. To avoid radiation exposure, reduction without fluoroscopic confirmation was studied. Between 1981 and 1985 a total of 224 children were diagnosed and treated for intussusception. The diagnosis was made correctly on clinical grounds in 184 cases; in 40 cases ultrasonography confirmed the clinical diagnosis. Pressurized air reduction was successful in 217 patients (96.9%); seven patients required operative reduction. Ultrasonograms of the abdomen supported the diagnosis in 40 patients and confirmed subsequent reduction. This experience demonstrates that childhood intussusception can be reduced using pneumatic pressure without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation.