During rehydration, it is extremely important to use appropriate volume of isotonic fluids like Ringer's lactate, normal saline, or dextrose half normal saline and monitor the urine output. It can lead to dilutional hyponatraemia and subsequent problems like cerebral edema and convulsions. Intravenous prophylactic antibiotics are administered and usually a broad spectrum antibiotic such as gentamycin is combined with metronidazole. Nonoperative approach is the preferred mode of management because it carries reduced morbidity and duration of hospitalisation is short. However, it is important that before any attempt at reduction, child is evaluated by a Paediatric surgeon and operating room is kept ready.
Most centers use barium enema and x-ray screening for reduction.
Water soluble contrast medium can be substituted for barium. However, some have documented good results from saline reduction under ultrasonographic control also, and the success mainly depends on reliability of the ultrasonographer. Pneumatic reduction is becoming popular and there is a large series reported from China. But, there is risk of equivocal diagnosis and tension pneumoperitoneum. A lubricated Foley's catheter is introduced into the rectum and held in place by firmly taping the buttocks together.