Failed Intussusception Reduction in Children: Correlation Between Radiologic, Surgical, and Pathologic Findings

The distalmost location of the intussusception mass and presence of the dissecting sign on images obtained during contrast enema have a higher positive predictive value for failed reduction. Screening ultrasound decreases the number of unnecessary contrast enemas performed; however, classic pathologic lead points, such as Burkitt lymphoma and Meckel diverticulum, may be difficult to diagnose with the use of ultrasound. Laparotomy and laparoscopy are equally safe and efficacious in reducing intussusception, with the length of the hospital stay after laparoscopy significantly shorter than that noted after laparotomy. Most failed enema reductions are idiopathic, and pathologic lead points are noted in 25% of cases.