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Review of pneumatic reduction of intussusception: evolution not revolution
J Y Zheng1, D P Frush, J Z Guo
1Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710.
Insights
Pneumatic insufflation is an effective alternative to hydrostatic reduction for pediatric intussusception. Extensive Chinese experience informs international use of this air insufflation technique.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Intussusception is a common surgical emergency in children.
- Hydrostatic reduction using contrast material is the traditional treatment.
- Pneumatic reduction offers a potentially advantageous alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the technique of pneumatic reduction for pediatric intussusception as practiced in China.
- To compare pneumatic reduction with traditional hydrostatic reduction.
- To summarize international experience with air insufflation for intussusception.
Main Methods:
- Review of English language literature focusing on pneumatic reduction in China.
- Summary of the general technique for pneumatic reduction.
- Comparative analysis of pneumatic and hydrostatic reduction methods.
Main Results:
- Pneumatic reduction has extensive documented use in China, with over 14,000 reported cases.
- The technique involves air insufflation for reduction of intussusception.
- International experience is incorporated for comparison.
Conclusions:
- Pneumatic insufflation is a recognized alternative for pediatric intussusception in the US.
- Chinese experience provides a substantial basis for understanding pneumatic reduction.
- Further comparison of international experiences can refine treatment strategies.
Abstract:
Pneumatic insufflation of the colon for reduction of pediatric intussusception has recently been recognized in the United States as an alternative method for the more traditional hydrostatic reduction with contrast material. The experience with pneumatic reduction in China is extensive; more than 14,000 cases have been reported in the English language literature. In this review, the general technique used in China is summarized, and the international experience with air insufflation is included in a comparison of hydrostatic and pneumatic reduction techniques.
