Factors associated with ultrasound-guided water enema reduction for pediatric intussusception in resource-limited setting: potential predictive role of thrombocytosis and anemia

Background/purpose

Although ultrasound-guided hydrostatic reduction (USGHR) is increasingly used in managing pediatric intussusception, there is limited literature concerning its use in Malaysia. We aim to examine the experience and factors associated with the effectiveness of USGHR using water.

Methods

This is a single-center retrospective observational study in a Malaysian tertiary referral center. Children with intussusception admitted between year 2012 and 2016 were included and medical records reviewed. Factors associated with success or failure of USGHR were identified using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Of the 172 cases included, 151 cases (87.8%) underwent USGHR, of whom 129 cases were successfully reduced (success rate of 85.4%). One perforation (0.7%) was reported. Age more than 3 years old (aOR = 7.16; 95% CI = 1.07–47.94; p = 0.042), anemia (aOR = 10.12; 95% CI = 1.12–91.35; p = 0.039), thrombocytosis (aOR = 11.21; 95% CI = 2.06–64.33; p = 0.005) and ultrasound findings of free fluid (aOR = 9.39; 95% CI = 1.62–54.38; p = 0.012) and left-sided intussusception (aOR = 8.18;95% CI = 1.22–54.90, p = 0.031) were independently associated with USGHR irreducibility. Symptom duration, blood in stool, vomiting and other clinical presentations, however, showed no association.

Conclusions

USGHR with water is effective in the non-operative management of pediatric intussusception. Prolonged symptom duration need not necessarily preclude USGHR. The findings of anemia and thrombocytosis as independent predictors of USGHR irreducibility deserve further study.

Type of study

Treatment study

Level of evidence

III