What are the current guidelines for the management and treatment options for intussusception in children?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 17 August 2025Updated: 17 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

The provided UK guideline excerpts do not contain specific guidelines for the management and treatment options for intussusception in children.

However, general principles from the guidelines suggest that conditions presenting with symptoms like intractable or bilious vomiting may indicate a serious alternative diagnosis or surgical condition requiring specialist management . For children with suspected serious alternative diagnoses, hospital assessment should be considered, with urgency depending on clinical judgment . Additionally, there is a low threshold for admitting children with suspected appendicitis due to diagnostic challenges and possible atypical presentation in this age group, which highlights the need for prompt assessment of acute abdominal conditions in children .

Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.