Pseudoreduction of intussusception: is ileal reflux the end point?

Two cases of unsuccessful hydrostatic reduction of intussusception are reported. Both were associated with barium filling multiple loops of distal ileum, despite lack of complete reduction of the intussusception. The presence of free ileal reflux does not guarantee successful reduction. Careful examination of the cecum for residual intussusceptum and of non-contrast-filled small-bowel loops for evidence of remaining small-bowel obstruction is essential to recognize unsuccessful reduction.