Stomach volvulus

Twisting of the stomach that may result in gastric ischemia and gastric outlet obstruction. It is often associated with diaphragmatic hernia.

CT of small bowel volvulus

Causes

Obstruction of the bowel may be due to:

• A mechanical cause, which means something is in the way
• Ileus
• Paralytic ileus, also called pseudo-obstruction
• Bacteria or viruses that cause intestinal infections (gastroenteritis)
• Chemical, electrolyte, or mineral imbalances (such as decreased potassium level)
• Abdominal surgery
• Decreased blood supply to the intestines
• Infections inside the abdomen, such as appendicitis
• Kidney or lung disease
• Use of certain medicines, especially narcotics
• Mechanical causes of intestinal obstruction may include:
• Adhesions or scar tissue that forms after surgery
• Foreign bodies (objects that are swallowed and block the intestines)
• Gallstones (rare)
• Hernias
• Impacted stool
• Intussusception (telescoping of one segment of bowel into another)
• Tumors blocking the intestines
• Volvulus (twisted intestine)

Symptoms

• Symptoms may include:
• Abdominal swelling (distention)
• Abdominal fullness, gas
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Breath odor
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Inability to pass gas
• Vomiting

Exams and Tests

Tests that show obstruction include:

• Abdominal CT scan
• Abdominal x-ray
• Barium enema
• Upper GI and small bowel series

Treatment

• Treatment involves placing a tube through the nose into the stomach or intestine.
• Volvulus of the large bowel may be treated by passing a tube into the rectum.
• Surgery may be needed to relieve the obstruction if the tube does not relieve the symptoms.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome depends on the cause of the blockage. Most of the time, the cause is successfully treated.

Possible Complications

• Complications may include or may lead to:
• Electrolyte (blood chemical and mineral) imbalances
• Dehydration
• Hole (perforation) in the intestine
• Infection
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Stomach volvulus Resources
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