Intussusception in a 7-month-old child presents with intermittent colic, redcurrant jelly stools, and a palpable right iliac fossa mass. The first-line non-operative reduction method of choice is:

• A Barium enema reduction
• B Manual reduction via laparotomy (Hutchinson's manoeuvre)
• C Pneumatic (air) enema reduction under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance ✓
• D Hydrostatic saline enema under MRI guidance

Explanation

Pneumatic (air) enema under fluoroscopic guidance is the preferred first-line reduction technique for childhood intussusception, with success rates of 80–90% in the absence of peritonitis. Air enema has superseded barium enema due to lower perforation risk and equivalent reduction rates. Contraindications include peritonitis, perforation, or clinical instability. Surgical reduction (Hutchinson's squeeze manoeuvre at laparotomy) is reserved for failed pneumatic reduction or complications.

Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.