Description
An abnormal twisting of the intestines. The disorder can occur because of a congenital abnormality (mal-rotation of intestine) and usually presents early in life. When it occurs in adults, it more commonly involves the large intestine (colon). Regardless of the cause, the volvulus can cause obstruction of the flow of material through the bowel, variable loss of blood supply, and possible death of the colon. If untreated the disorder can be life threatening.
Symptoms
Abdominal pain and tenderness, nausea, vomiting, vomiting of fecal smelling material, bloody or dark red stool, distended abdomen.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis. A CT scan is the most common test to confirm the volvulus.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Barium enema, upper GI series
Specialists:
General Surgery, Pediatric Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis. A CT scan is the most common test to confirm the volvulus.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Barium enema, upper GI series
Specialists:
General Surgery, Pediatric Surgery
Treatment
Emergency surgery is needed to untwist the bowel and restore blood supply. If the volvulus has been present long enough to cause tissue death, the affected intestine will need to be removed. Many patients are dehydrated requiring intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement.