Volvulus

Volvulus is a medical condition involving a twist of the bowel that can lead to obstruction and infarction. This can cause severe abdominal pain and potentially life-threatening complications.

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Types

• There are several types of volvulus based on the location of the twist:
• Sigmoid volvulus: The sigmoid colon, which is part of the large intestine, becomes twisted. This is the most common type of volvulus in adults.
• Cecal volvulus: The cecum, which is the beginning of the large intestine, becomes twisted.
• Midgut volvulus: This occurs when the entire midgut, which includes part of the small intestine, rotates abnormally. This type is most common in infants and children.

Symptoms

Symptoms of volvulus can include severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and bloody stool. Symptoms can be sudden or gradually develop over a period of weeks or months.

Treatment

Immediate medical attention is necessary if volvulus is suspected. Treatment typically involves surgery to untwist the bowel and potentially remove any segment of the bowel that has been damaged. In some cases, a procedure called sigmoidoscopy can be used to untwist the sigmoid colon.

Risk Factors

Certain people may be more at risk of developing volvulus, including those with a history of chronic constipation, certain congenital malformations, or previous abdominal surgery.

See Also

• Intestinal obstruction
• Abdominal pain
• Sigmoidoscopy

References

• "Volvulus". Mayo Clinic.
• "Volvulus". Cleveland Clinic.
• "Volvulus". Johns Hopkins Medicine.

External Links

Volvulus - MedlinePlus Volvulus - Cleveland Clinic

Volvulus Resources
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