What indicates a successful hydrostatic reduction in a child diagnosed with intussusception?

A successful hydrostatic reduction in a child diagnosed with intussusception is primarily indicated by the passage of stool without blood. This signifies that the obstruction has been resolved, allowing digestive contents to move through the intestines normally and indicating that any edema or damage to the intestinal lining has improved. The absence of blood in the stool suggests that the intestine is no longer compromised, which is a crucial factor in the recovery process.

While the absence of abdominal pain can be a sign of improvement, it is not definitive proof of successful reduction. Similarly, visibility of peristalsis across the abdomen may be observed, but it does not directly indicate the state of the intussusception or confirmation of successful reduction. The presence of a sausage-shaped mass may indicate that intussusception is still present in some cases and is not an indicator of successful reduction. Thus, the passage of stool without blood serves as a clear and more reliable indicator of successful hydrostatic reduction.