Air enema for reduction of intussusception in children: Risk of bacteremia

PURPOSE: To evaluate the incidence of bacteremia in children undergoing air enema for the diagnosis and reduction of intussusception. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-seven children who underwent air enema for the diagnosis and treatment of intussusception were evaluated to identify the incidence of transient bacteremia and fever associated with the procedure. Blood cultures were obtained prior to the manipulation (point 0), immediately after completion of the procedure (point 1), and 2 hours later (point 2). RESULTS: The results of six of 81 sets of blood cultures were positive for bacterial pathogens. Three of them that were obtained at point 0 and two at point 1 grew common skin contaminants. A sixth blood culture drawn at point 1 was positive for Staphylococcus aureus. No patient had more than one positive blood culture result, and all recovered without antimicrobial therapy. Five patients had temperature elevations to greater than or equal to 38 degrees C following the enema. Only one of the patients was febrile at admission, and none had positive blood culture results. CONCLUSION: The risk of bacteremia from enteric pathogens following air enema for reduction of intussusception in children appears to be low.