Open reduction of acute pediatric intussusception through inferior umbilical skin fold incision

Objective To evaluate the feasibility of open reduction of pediatric intussusception through inferior umbilical skin fold incision. Methods During June 2011 and November 2013, 26 cases of acute pediatric intussusceptions underwent open reduction through inferior umbilical skin fold incision. The mean age was 11.2 (3-28) months. The time from initial symptom to hospitalization was within 48 hours. Air enema was performed but failed in reduction. The surgical incision was arc-shaped along inferior umbilical skin fold. Distal ileum was extracted until intussusception part came under the incision. Then right finger was extended into abdominal cavity for intussusception reduction with the assistance of both hands outside abdominal wall. Results Twenty-five cases of intussusceptions were successfully reduced. The average operative duration was 29 min. One case required incision extension by 2 cm because of reduction difficulty. And another 1 case of Meckel's diverticulum was intraoperatively removed. Except for 1 case of fat liquefaction, there was no occurrence of such complications as infection, dehiscence or enterobrosis. After 1 month, the scars were invisible within the fold of navel skin.The surgical indications are for children with stable signs and a short onset time. Most cases of acute intussusception may be managed by open reduction through inferior umbilical skin fold incision. With only a small incision, it has fewer postoperative complications. For more difficult cases, proper extension of incision may achieve reduction without higher risk or complexity. Conclusions The surgical indications of open recluction through inferion umbibical skin fold incision are for children with stable signs and a short onset time. Most cases of acute intussusception may be managed by open reduction through inferior umbilical skin fold incision. With only a small incision, it has fewer postoperative complications. For more difficult cases, proper extension of incision may achieve reduction without higher risk or complexity. Key words: Intussusceptions; Digestive system surgical procedures; Feasibility studies