An 8-month-old infant presents with intermittent colicky pain and current-jelly stools. Ultrasound shows a doughnut sign in the right hypochondrium. Which of the following is the treatment of first choice when there is no peritonitis?
- A Surgical reduction via laparotomy
- B Air or hydrostatic (saline/contrast) enema reduction ✓
- C Laparoscopic reduction
- D Observation and IV hydration alone
Correct answer: B. Air or hydrostatic (saline/contrast) enema reduction
Explanation
Intussusception in children is treated with pneumatic (air) or hydrostatic (saline or water-soluble contrast) enema reduction under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance as the first-line approach, with success rates of 80–95%. Surgery is reserved for failed non-operative reduction, peritonitis, or perforation. Laparoscopy may be used in some centres for failed enema reduction. Observation is inadequate for established intussusception.
Reference: Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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