Intussusception: even Hippocrates did not standardize his technique of enema reduction.

Sonography of the Acute Abdomen in the Pediatric Patient

“…of intussusception is generally performed with air, barium, or water-soluble contrast material under fluoroscopic guidance. 5 Sonographically guided hydrostatic reduction of intussusception has been described by Riebel et al 6 and recommended because of a substantial reduction in radiation exposure. Intussusception can be recognized on sonography by visualization of a mass with a typical "target" appearance on a cross section, due to multiple layers of bowel, and a pseudokidney appearance on longitudinal scans ( Fig.…”

Current methods for reducing intussusception: survey results

“…Although inflation of a rectal balloon to achieve a seal is controversial [1,4,13,[18][19][20][21], our survey found that this practice remains popular. It is still accepted practice to use tape, place a gauze plug at the anal verge or create a tape wrap around the catheter to achieve a seal [1,4].…”

“…It is still accepted practice to use tape, place a gauze plug at the anal verge or create a tape wrap around the catheter to achieve a seal [1,4]. Although catheter diameter has been shown to have a significant effect on pressure conduction of liquid contrast media, diameter appears less important for gas reduction [35].…”

“…Various reduction techniques have been utilized [1][2][3][4][5]. Optimal technique is important to maximize success.…”

“…Since the 1920s, reductions have been monitored radiographically. Pneumatic reduction was introduced to North America in the late 20 th century and has gradually assumed the lead [4,5]. However details of reduction practices continue to vary and evolve [2,3,[7][8][9][10][11][12][13].…”