Abstract

Background: It is widely believed that hydrostatic reduction of intussusception is less successful in children with prolonged symptoms prior to presentation.

Aim: To prospectively evaluate success in relation to duration of symptoms.

Methods: Prospective study in which children, regardless of symptom duration, underwent an attempt at hydrostatic reduction.

Results: Of 113 children presenting with intussusception, 16 had peritonitis and required immediate laparotomy. A hydrostatic reduction was attempted in 97 and was successful in 77 (79%). There were 26 successful reductions with symptoms <12 hours (81%), 30 with symptoms for 12–24 hours (81%), and 21 with symptoms >24 hours (75%).

Conclusion: The success rate with hydrostatic reduction was not significantly influenced by symptom duration.