Tension pneumoperitoneum is a life-threatening complication of pneumatic reduction for intussusception if not immediately recognized and treated. We describe a 3-month-old woman who presented with intussusception, underwent attempted pneumatic reduction, and subsequently developed tension pneumoperitoneum with associated hemodynamic instability requiring emergent laparotomy. This is a known, rare complication of pneumatic reduction which highlights the need to have a high index of suspicion for early surgical management to obtain a positive outcome.
NgEKimHBLilleheiCWSeefelderC. Life threatening tension pneumoperitoneum from intestinal perforation during air reduction of intussusception. Pediatr Anesth. 2002;12(9):798-800.
2.
DanemanANavarroO. Intussusception. Part 2: An update on the evolution of management. Pediatr Radiol. 2004;34(2):97-108.
3.
FallonSCKimESNaik-MathuriaBJNuchternJGCassadyCIRodriguezJR. Needle decompression to avoid tension pneumoperitoneum and hemodynamic compromise after pneumatic reduction of pediatric intussusception. Pediatr Radiol. 2013;43(6):662-667.
4.
MaoateKBeasleySW. Perforation during gas reduction of intussusception. Pediatr Surg Int. 1998;14:168-170.
