An experience of ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction of intussusception at a tertiary care centre : paediatric surgery

Background: Intussusception is an important and one of the most commonly encountered diagnoses of intestinal obstruction in the paediatric age group. Ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction is an effective, nonoperative treatment modality for this condition and is associated with a high success rate. In addition, it is simple and safe as the entire procedure is carried out with real-time ultrasound, without the hazard of radiation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction in the management of intussusceptions in the paediatric age group. Methods: A case study was carried out on 89 patients diagnosed with intussusception using high-resolution ultrasonography over a period of two years, spanning February 2012 to January 2014. Ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction was performed in 78 of these patients, and 11 patients were excluded owing to clinical contraindications. Follow-up ultrasound was performed after 24 hours to rule out recurrence. Results: The disease was most prevalent in the age group 6-24 months. The ileocolic type was the most common. Mean duration (hours) was 17.02 ± 20.81 for time to presentation. Complete therapeutic reduction was achieved in 70 of the 78 cases, with a success rate of 90%. Two recurrences occurred in the following 24 hours, which were successfully reduced on the second attempt. Complications and mortality did not occur secondary to the procedure. Conclusion: Our study found that ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction is a simple, safe and effective nonoperative treatment for intussusceptions in the paediatric age group, and should be the first line of management in appropriate patients.