Ladd's bands

Ladd's Bands are anatomical structures found in the abdomen, specifically in the intestine. They are named after William E. Ladd, a pioneering pediatric surgeon who first described them. Ladd's Bands are associated with a congenital disorder known as malrotation of the intestine, which can lead to a serious condition called volvulus.

Anatomy

Ladd's Bands are fibrous bands of tissue that extend from the cecum (the beginning of the large intestine) to the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, crossing over the second part of the duodenum. These bands are remnants of the embryonic ventral mesentery, which normally disappears during fetal development. However, in some individuals, these bands persist after birth.

Clinical Significance

The presence of Ladd's Bands can lead to a condition known as intestinal malrotation. This is a congenital disorder in which the intestine does not rotate correctly during fetal development. The malrotation can cause the intestine to twist around itself (a condition known as volvulus), leading to a blockage that prevents food and fluid from passing through. This can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and potentially life-threatening complications such as intestinal perforation and peritonitis.

Ladd's Bands can also cause a form of intestinal obstruction known as duodenal obstruction. This occurs when the bands compress the second part of the duodenum, preventing the normal passage of food and fluid.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of Ladd's Bands is typically made through imaging studies such as an upper gastrointestinal series or a CT scan. The bands themselves are not usually visible on imaging, but their effects, such as duodenal obstruction or malrotation, can be seen.

Treatment of Ladd's Bands involves surgical removal of the bands, a procedure known as a Ladd's procedure. This surgery also involves correcting any associated malrotation and addressing any other complications such as volvulus or intestinal obstruction.

See Also

• Intestinal malrotation
• Volvulus
• Duodenal obstruction
• William E. Ladd