Caecal volvulus: untwisting the mystery

Cecal volvulus following appendectomy in a teenage patient: A case report

Patients mimicking appendicitis symptoms in a rural setting or those post-appendectomy, indicating cecal volvulus, should always be considered. Swift action can prevent catastrophic consequences.

Abstract

We present a case of a 14-year-old female who initially underwent open appendectomy for acute appendicitis and subsequently experienced symptoms of abdominal distention, vomiting, and fever. Her condition deteriorated following the appendectomy, despite a prior appendectomy for similar symptoms at a different facility. A computed tomography (CT) scan identified cecal volvulus as the underlying issue. This led to the performance of a laparotomy, cecopexy, and decompressive ileostomy. After six weeks, ileostomy closure was successfully carried out, and the patient currently enjoys good health. This case highlights the significance of considering uncommon factors as potential contributors to postoperative complications in young patients.

Cecal Volvulus: A Report of a Challenging Case

Cecal volvulus represents a rare form of acute intestinal obstruction caused by an axial twist of the terminal ileum, ascending colon, and cecum surrounding the mesenteric pedicle. It is responsible for 1%-1.5% of all intestinal obstruction cases in adults. Radiological imaging assists in the diagnosis of cecal volvulus, particularly a CT scan with contrast as the gold standard for both diagnosis and risk assessment. In this case report, we present a challenging case of cecal volvulus seen in a 75‑year‑old male patient with multiple comorbidities who presented with abdominal guarding/tenderness and high WBC and lactate, which evolved into septic shock. The purpose of this study is to underline the significance of early diagnosis and effective treatment of this uncommon condition in abdominal surgeries.