Volvulus - lower GI

Question 1

What is volvulus?

Answer 1

loop of intestine twists around itself + the mesentery that supports it

–> resulting in a bowel obstruction

Question 2

What is the epidemiology of volvulus?

Answer 2

• adults > children
  
  • frequency: small intestine = colon (sigmoid / caecum)
• In children
  
  • frequency: small intestine >> colon

Question 3

What are the consequences of volvulus?

Answer 3

• ischaemia
• obstruction:
  
  • accumulation of gas and fluid in the portion of the bowel obstructed.
• –> Ultimately necrosis/ gangrene

Question 4

What is the primary treatment for volvulus?

Answer 4

Immediate surgical intervention

Question 5

What are the presenting symptoms of volvulus?

Answer 5

• abdominal pain,
• distension,
• absolute constipation.