A simple and safe technique for pneumatic reduction of intussusception.
BACKGROUND
Pneumatic reduction has a higher success rate and lower incidence of complications compared to barium enema and hydrostatic reductions. What is deterrent to its common use is the cumbersome technique. Our aim is to develop a simple technique that can be used in any hospital with locally available facilities.


METHODS
An intercostal drainage bottle and an enema can were used to pass air into the rectum at a controlled pressure determined by the height of the enema can. Water running in from the enema can displaces the air in the intercostal drainage bottle into the rectum effecting the reduction of intussusception.


RESULTS
This system was tried in 12 patients. Successful air delivery was obtained in all cases. In two cases, the intussusception could not be reduced. Laparotomy revealed these to be ileoileal intussusceptions.


CONCLUSIONS
The technique described is easy to assemble, safe and effective. We recommend it for regular use in pneumatic reduction of intussusception.
Abraham
Mohan K
MK
Department of Pediatric Surgery, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, Kochi, Kerala, India. mohanabraham@hotmail.com
Joy
M G
MG
Menon
Sunil S
SS
Bindu
S
S
Ramakrishnan
P
P
D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007327:Insufflation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D007443:Intussusception / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male