[The initial experiences with a new method for treating invagination: sonography-guided hydrostatic reduction].

During the last four months we have been treating all 15 sonographically diagnosed intussusceptions by a new method; this is based on the introduction of a saline enema under sonographic control. In 13 cases the method was successful according to imaging and clinical criteria. In two patients conservative reduction was impossible: in one patient partial resection of the ileum was necessary and in the other there was a recurrence which was reduced at operation. There were no complications. The advantages of the method are reduced radiation exposure, complete evaluation of the course of the procedure with definite criteria for success, the ability to recognise an ileo-ileal invagination and to determine the head of the intussusceptum. We can see no disadvantages compared with conventional methods. We regard this method as optimal in future for the treatment of infantile intussusceptions.