Factors leading to surgical treatment of intussusception.

We have reviewed the histories of 36 children treated operatively for 37 intussusceptions on one surgical service at this hospital during a period of ten years. Thirteen children had undergone operative procedures without attempted hydrostatic reduction. The only death that occurred was in a 800 gram premature infant. Pre-existing conditions altering intestinal motility were present in seven children. A definite lead point in the intestinal tract was present in six patients. Although hydrostatic reduction plays a major role in the management of uncomplicated intussusception in the pediatric age group, surgical treatment is sitll a necessary alternative for the management of intussusception.