US-GUIDED HYDROSTATIC REDUCTION OF INTUSSUSCEPTION IN CHILDREN

Over a period of 3 3/4 years, hydrostatic reduction of ileocolic intus susception was performed under sonographic guidance in 47 cases (a tot al of 41 consecutive patients). The enema consisted of a mixture of is otonic electrolyte solution and water-soluble contrast medium (9:1 rat io) and was given at a hydrostatic pressure of 80-100 cm water. Reduct ion was successful in 83% of cases (n = 39). Even initially remaining ileo-ileal intussusception could finally be reduced in two cases. No c omplications were observed. Since, in comparison with other conservati ve methods of reduction, the success rate was not substantially worse (versus that of pneumatic reduction) or was even higher (versus that o f barium enema reduction), the method described can be recommended for wider use because of the substantial reduction in radiation exposure.