Conservatice reduction of intussusception in children. Why are we lagging behind?

Abstract

Childhood intussusception is a common cause of intestinal obstruction and classically the child presents with abdominal colic, vomiting, red currant jelly stool and general irritability. These signs and symptoms generally permit the diagnosis of an intussusception to be made. However, a hydrostatic radiological/fluoroscopic study is confirmatory in doubtful cases. Childhood intussusception is a strangulating obstruction and therefore warrants immediate attention for reduction of the intussusception. Recent advances in endoscopic surgery have shown that the previous held belief of time lapse from onset of illness to presentation should not be used as a criterion for not adopting conservative (hydrostatic or pneumatic) methods in reducing the intussusception in a child. The factors to consider are the clinical state of the child and the presence or absence of abdominal catastrophe. Conservative reduction lowers morbidity and mortality, shortens hospital stay, allows the parents early return to work and is cost effective.

Global Journal of Mathematical Sciences Vol. 6 (1) 2007: pp. 1-4