What is the most common diagnostic procedure for intussusception in children?

The most common diagnostic procedure for intussusception in children is a barium contrast enema. This procedure not only allows visualization of the intestinal obstruction but can also serve a dual purpose. The barium can help to reduce the intussusception, providing both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. In pediatric cases, the use of a barium contrast enema offers a non-invasive means of identifying the condition and is particularly beneficial due to its availability and effectiveness in revealing the characteristic “target sign” associated with intussusception.

While abdominal ultrasound is also frequently used, particularly for infants and young children due to its lack of radiation and ease of use, it may not provide as comprehensive a view as a barium contrast enema. CT scans, although highly sensitive, are generally less favored in the pediatric population due to the exposure to radiation. Plain abdominal X-rays can be used to look for signs of obstruction but are not specific for intussusception and thus are not considered a primary diagnostic tool. Therefore, the barium contrast enema remains the most established and commonly used procedure for diagnosing intussusception in children.