Description
Twisting of the bowel causing a blockage of food material and usually decreased blood flow to the affected intestine. The intestine can die causing peritonitis and death. The volvulus may occur in children due to a congenital abnormality while in adults it is associated with overuse of laxatives and psychiatric disease (or its treatment). Often, no cause can be identified.
Symptoms
Abdominal fullness, gaseous, abdominal distention, abdominal pain and cramping, vomiting, failure to pass gas or stool (severe constipation), diarrhea.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging studies are performed to establish the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Barium enema, upper GI and small bowel series
Specialists:
General Surgery, Gastroenterology, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Gastroenterology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Imaging studies are performed to establish the diagnosis.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Barium enema, upper GI and small bowel series
Specialists:
General Surgery, Gastroenterology, Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Gastroenterology
Treatment
Most cases of volvulus require surgical correction. At times a volvulus of the colon can be decompressed without surgery. Small intestinal volvuli usually require surgery to untwist the bowel and then attach the intestine to the abdominal wall to prevent recurrence.