An unusual case of small bowel and sigmoid volvuli presenting with dyspnea

Intestinal volvulus is a pathological condition that can lead to bowel obstruction and intestinal ischemia, and is therefore potentially fatal in severe cases. Patients' symptoms are often nonspecific: volvulus most frequently presents as an acute abdomen, but vague symptoms such as abdominal pain and distension, nausea and vomiting are common. In this scenario, the gold standard for diagnosis is contrast-enhanced computed tomography, which allows a timely assessment. However, in this article we present a rare case of a small bowel volvulus associated with a sigmoid volvulus in which the patient presented to the emergency department with respiratory symptoms.

Comments on: "Coffee bean sign, steel pan sign and whirl sign in sigmoid volvulus"

We read the paper written by Hokama and Iraha presenting abdominal X-ray radiography (XR) and computed tomography (CT) findings in a patient with sigmoid volvulus (SV). Ataturk University Research Hospital, a tertiary referral health centre in Eastern Anatolia, has 1,076-case experience with SV over 57,5-year period (from 1966 to January 2024). This data means as the largest single-centre SV series over the world. In the light of this comprehensive experience, we want to discuss the diagnostic tools of SV including radiological and endoscopic findings.

Sigmoid volvulus-Can CT features predict outcomes and recurrence?

OBJECTIVES

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is a common cause of bowel obstruction, especially in older patients. SV can be mesenteroaxial (M-SV) or organoaxial (O-SV). The purpose of this study was to assess if CT findings in SV are associated with clinical outcomes. including recurrence, choice of management, and mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study includes patients with SV and a CT within 24 hours of presentation. CT features, including mesenteraoxial/organoaxial arrangement, direction of rotation, transition points, distension, whirl-sign, ischemia, and perforation were determined. Demographics, treatment, recurrence, and outcome data were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventeen cases were diagnosed in 80 patients (54 male). The mean age was 70 years (± 17.1). M-SV and O-SV were equally prevalent (n = 39 vs. n = 41, respectively). M-SV was significantly more common with anticlockwise rotation in the axial plane (p = 0.028) and clockwise rotation in the coronal plane (p = 0.015). All patients with imaging features of ischemia underwent surgery (n = 6). There was no significant difference in outcome variables (30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, recurrence) between the O-SV and M-SV groups. The degree of bowel distension on initial presentation was a significant predictor of recurrence, with ≥ 9 cm vs < 9 cm associated with an increased odds of any recurrence (OR: 3.23; 95%CI: 1.39-7.92).

CONCLUSION

In SV, sigmoid distension of more than 9 cm at baseline CT was associated with an increased risk of recurrence. Imaging features of ischemia predicted surgical over endoscopic intervention. Organoaxial and mesenteroaxial SV had similar prevalence, but the type of volvulus was not associated with clinical outcomes or choice of management.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

There is a risk of recurrent sigmoid volvulus with colonic distension greater than 9 cm. This work, comparing volvulus subtypes, shows that this finding at the initial presentation could expedite consideration for surgical management.

KEY POINTS

Reports of outcomes for different subtypes and rotational directions of volvuli have been contradictory. No difference in measured outcomes was found between subtypes; distension ≥ 9 cm predicted recurrence. CT features can aide management of sigmoid volvulus and can prompt surgical intervention.

Reply to the comments on "Coffee bean sign, steel pan sign and whirl sign in sigmoid volvulus"

We thank Prof. Atamanalp and colleagues for their interest and valuable comments on our article. The authors have highlighted important considerations in the diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus (SV). We would like to respond to their comments. Firstly, although we agree with their opinion that CT, MRI, and endoscopy are more reliable diagnostic tools than plain radiography, we still emphasize that diagnostic imaging for SV is initially based on plain radiography, as recommended by the WSES consensus guidelines. Since SV is the third most common cause of colonic obstruction worldwide, the accessibility of plain radiography is crucial. Among the many plain radiographic signs of SV, Levsky et al. reported that the most sensitive signs were absence of rectal gas, followed by inverted-U appearance and coffee bean sign. Understanding these signs may lead to early detection of SV and further CT evaluation for ischemia or perforation. Despite the high value of plain radiography, there is a global tend to use CT instead from the outset. Secondly, we agree with their opinion that endoscopy is not only a therapeutic, but also a diagnostic procedure to assess mucosal viability. In addition, we believe that endoscopy is also useful in ruling out other obstructive lesions, including colorectal neoplasia and complicated sigmoid diverticular disease. In the clinical setting, endoscopy is performed after the diagnosis of SV by plain radiography or CT and serves as the first line of decompression of SV when ischemia or perforation is not suspected. Finally, we congratulate Prof. Atamanalp and colleagues for their dedicated contribution to the large-scale SV studies in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey, where SV is endemic.

Coffee bean sign, steel pan sign and whirl sign in sigmoid volvulus

A 66-year-old man presented with abdominal distension. A plain radiograph showed the coffee bean sign, suggesting sigmoid volvulus (SV). The CT scans disclosed the steel pan sign, the whirl sign, and the beak-shaped transition point, confirming SV. He improved with colonoscopic decompression and detorsion. Characteristic radiographic signs of SV are briefly discussed.

Evaluation of 18 CT signs in diagnosing cecal volvulus: a multi-reader retrospective study

PURPOSE

To assess the diagnostic performance and reliability of 18 CT signs to diagnose cecal volvulus, a surgical emergency, versus a group of non-volvulus mimickers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Four radiologists retrospectively and independently assessed 18 CT signs in 191 patients with cecal volvulus (n = 63) or a non-volvulus control group ((n = 128), including cecal bascule (n = 19), mobile cecum (n = 95), and colonic pseudo-obstruction (n = 14)) at a single institution from 2013 to 2021. Fleiss' kappa coefficient was used to assess inter-reader agreement. For diagnostic performance metrics, we assessed sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. For predictive performance, all 18 signs were included in bivariate and stepwise lasso multivariate logistic regression models to diagnose cecal volvulus. Performance was assessed by ROC curves.

RESULTS

191 patients (mean age: 63 years +/- 15.5 [SD]; 135 women) were included in the study. Nine of the 18 CT signs of cecal volvulus demonstrated good or better (> 0.6) inter-reader agreement. Individual CT signs with sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values all above 70% for diagnosing cecal volvulus were transition point, bird beak, and X-marks-the-spot. A lasso regression model determined four CT features: transition point, bird beak, coffee bean, and whirl had excellent prediction (AUC = .979) for cecal volvulus if all present.

CONCLUSION

CT signs for cecal volvulus that have high sensitivity and specificity include: transition point, bird beak, and X-marks-the-spot and were reliable in distinguishing non-volvulus mimickers. If the following four features were present: transition point, bird beak, coffee bean, and whirl, there was excellent prediction (AUC = .979) for cecal volvulus.

Does the use of computed tomography scenogram alone enable diagnosis in cases of bowel obstruction?

BACKGROUND

Ileus is a pathological condition of the abdomen that presents as a medical emergency. It is characterized by potential complications such as perforation and ischemia, which can lead to significant morbidity and mortality if not promptly addressed. The successful management of ileus relies heavily on the timely and precise identification of the condition. While conventional radiography (CR) is commonly used as the primary diagnostic tool, its accuracy in identifying obstructions ranges from 46% to 80%. Furthermore, the diagnostic accuracy of identifying the location and etiology of intestinal obstruction by CR is limited, therefore making computed tomography (CT) the ideal imaging modality in this regard.

AIM

To determine the presence of acute bowel obstruction (BO) on abdominal CT scenogram images and the accuracy of determining its possible location, taking into account the experience of the observers.

METHODS

A retrospective screening was conducted on an ensemble of 46 individuals who presented to the emergency department between January 2021 and January 2022 with severe abdominal pain and were subsequently monitored for suspected ileus. The abdominal CT scans of these patients were assessed by three radiologists with varying levels of experience (1, 3, and 10 years) at different intervals (1 mo apart). The evaluation focused on determining the presence or absence of BO, as well as identifying the potential location of the obstruction (small bowel or large bowel). The study employed Kappa statistics to assess inter-observer variances, while the McNamer test was used to evaluate obstruction and segmentation discrepancies between observations. A significance level of P < 0.05 was determined to indicate statistical significance.

RESULTS

Out of the total sample size of 46 patients, 15 individuals (32.6%) were identified as female, while the remaining 31 individuals (67.4%) were identified as male. The ultimate diagnosis of 42 instances (91.3%) indicated ileus resulting from mechanical obstruction (MO). Among these patients, 14 (33%) experienced obstruction in the large bowel (LB), while 28 (66%) experienced obstruction in the small bowel (SB). The initial evaluation yielded sensitivity rates of 76.19%, 83.31%, and 83.33%, and diagnostic accuracy rates of 69.56%, 76.08%, and 80.43% for the detection of BO among the three observers. The initial study revealed that the average sensitivity of three observers in detecting the presence of ileus caused by MO was 80.94%, while the diagnostic accuracy was 75.35%. Based on the first evaluation, the senior observer demonstrated the highest sensitivity (85.71%), negative predictive value (92.60%), and diagnostic accuracy (80.43%) when accurately estimating the thick and thin segmentation, as per the final diagnosis. There was no statistically significant disparity observed in the sensitivities pertaining to the identification of ileus during the second assessment, as well as the precise determination of the segment level inside the LB or SB, when comparing the second and third observers. Nevertheless, although there was no statistically significant alteration in the detection rate of ileus by the first observer, there was a notable rise in the accuracy rate of segment estimating (73.91%). The senior assessor had a higher level of accuracy in assessing the existence of ileus and segmentation compared to the other evaluators in both evaluations.

CONCLUSION

The findings of our study indicate that the sensitivity and accuracy rates of abdominal CT scenogram scans in diagnosing acute MOs are similar to or greater than those of CR. Additionally, the study revealed that radiologists with more experience demonstrated a higher likelihood of accurately predicting the existence and potential localization of MO compared to their less experienced counterparts.

Twists and turns: A case report of cecal volvulus

We present a case of a 22-year-old male presenting in the emergency room with colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, and abdominal distension for which an early computed tomography scan was done and diagnosed as cecal volvulus. Following diagnosis case was managed promptly by laparotomy with right hemicolectomy and primary anastomosis.

WSES consensus guidelines on sigmoid volvulus management

Sigmoid volvulus is a common surgical emergency, especially in elderly patients. Patients can present with a wide range of clinical states: from asymptomatic, to frank peritonitis secondary to colonic perforation. These patients generally need urgent treatment, be it endoscopic decompression of the colon or an upfront colectomy. The World Society of Emergency Surgery united a worldwide group of international experts to review the current evidence and propose a consensus guidelines on the management of sigmoid volvulus.

A tale of two twists: mesentero-axial and organo-axial sigmoid volvulus

INTRODUCTION

Sigmoid volvulus is a potentially devastating and life-threatening condition associated with sigmoid colon redundancy. Many of the classical radiological signs are considered to represent the two adjacent loops of bowel in a mesentero-axial volvulus. However, limited case reports and series have reported on an organo-axial subtype of sigmoid volvulus. This clinical entity is not widely understood. In this study, we assess the radiological and clinical features of mesentero-axial and organo-axial sigmoid volvulus.

METHODS

After institutional board approval (CH62/6/2016-228), all computed tomography (CT) studies from 2011 to 2017 reported as sigmoid volvulus at a single institution were reviewed. The cases were reviewed by three radiologists retrospectively and the course of the bowel followed with a focus on assessing its rotational axis. In each case, the sigmoid volvulus was independently subclassified as mesentero-axial or organo-axial volvulus based on the axis of rotation of the volvulus. In addition, X-ray signs including disproportionate sigmoid dilatation, distended inverted 'U' in sigmoid, coffee bean sign, opposed wall sign, direction of apex of sigmoid loop, liver overlap sign, northern exposure sign and proximal colonic dilatation and CT features including whirl sign, 'X' marks the spot sign, split wall sign and number of transition points were reported for each case. The clinical management and outcomes including morbidity, mortality, endoscopic decompression and need for surgery were also evaluated. The subtype of volvulus was correlated with the above X-ray signs, CT features and clinical management and outcomes. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata/MP, version 15 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 38 scans were reviewed. There were 19 patients identified. Of these, six (32%) were reported as mesentero-axial and 13 (68%) as organo-axial volvulus. No X-ray signs were able to distinguish the two types of volvulus. The number of transition points on CT was predictive of volvulus subtype (OR 25, 95% CI: 1.30-1295.30, P = 0.01). Within the limitations of a small cohort, there was no statistically significant difference in unsuccessful endoscopic decompression, need for colectomy, repeated admissions or mortality between the groups.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated that organo-axial sigmoid volvulus may be as common as mesentero-axial volvulus. Distinguishing organo-axial from mesentero-axial volvulus can be achieved on CT, but not on abdominal X-ray. The number of transition points (two for mesentero-axial and one for organo-axial) may be used as a diagnostic feature for differentiating the two forms of volvulus.

The CT scout view: complementary value added to abdominal CT interpretation

Computed tomography (CT) scout images, also known as CT localizer radiographs, topograms, or scanograms, are an important, albeit often overlooked part of the CT examination. Scout images may contain important findings outside of the scanned field of view on CT examinations of the abdomen and pelvis, such as unsuspected lung cancer at the lung bases. Alternatively, scout images can provide complementary information to findings within the scanned field of view, such as characterization of retained surgical foreign bodies. Assessment of scout images adds value and provides a complementary "opportunistic" review for interpretation of abdominopelvic CT examinations. Scout image review is a useful modern application of conventional abdominal radiograph interpretation that can help establish a diagnosis or narrow a differential diagnosis. This review discusses the primary purpose and intent of the CT scout images, addresses standard of care and bias related to scout image review, and presents a general systematic approach to assessing scout images with multiple illustrative examples, including potential pitfalls in interpreting scout images.

Sigmoid volvulus after trauma, an uncommon twist: A case report

Sigmoid volvulus occurs when a portion of sigmoid colon twists around its blood supply at the base of the mesentery, causing ischemia and necrosis. In developed nations, this is most commonly a condition of elderly, bed-bound, chronically constipated individuals. However, this condition may occur after blunt abdominal trauma, especially in individuals with underlying anatomic derangements from the aforementioned conditions. We present a unique case of sigmoid volvulus in a patient with no pre-existing abdominal complaints or surgical history, who sustained blunt traumatic injuries when she was struck by a motor vehicle. Prompt recognition of this deadly condition by emergency clinicians facilitated rapid surgical correction and mitigated further morbidity and mortality.

Sigmoid volvulus: definitive surgery is safe and should be considered in all instances

Background

Acute sigmoid volvulus (ASV) represents a small but significant portion of cases of large bowel obstruction, especially in the elderly and co-morbid. Given the characteristics of the patient cohort most commonly affected, a non-operative/conservative approach is often undertaken but is associated with a high rate of recurrence.

Objective

We sought to evaluate outcomes for those patients who underwent non-operative management, emergency surgery or staged, semi-elective surgery following decompression for ASV at our institution.

Methods

Hospital in-patient enquiry (HIPE) data were used to identify all patients who presented with sigmoid volvulus between January 2005 and June 2020 inclusive. Patient notes were interrogated, including surgical and endoscopic procedures performed. Patient demographics and co-morbidities were recorded.

Results

Thirty-nine patients were treated over a 15-year period with a mean age of 73 years at first presentation (range 36–93). Twenty-two patients (56%) had just a single admission for ASV with three deaths in this group.

Seventeen patients (44%) had more than one admission with volvulus due to recurrence after a decompression-only strategy on the index admission. Of these, three succumbed to complications of their subsequent episodes of volvulus.

Twenty-five patients underwent surgical intervention (fifteen on, or shortly following, their first admission and ten following at least two admissions for ASV). The overall mortality in the operative group was 2/25 (8%) with both deaths in those undergoing emergency surgeries. Five patients were treated successfully with endoscopic measures alone and had required no further interventions at the time of compiling data.

Conclusion

There is a high recurrence rate following non-operative management of acute sigmoid volvulus and consequently, a cumulative increase in the attendant significant morbidity and mortality with subsequent episodes. Given the relatively low complication rate of definitive surgery, even in those patients perceived to be high risk, we contend that all patients should be considered for early surgery to prevent the likely recurrence of sigmoid volvulus.

Imaging Modalities for Evaluation of Intestinal Obstruction

It is essential for the colon and rectal surgeon to understand the evaluation and management of patients with both small and large bowel obstructions. Computed tomography is usually the most appropriate and accurate diagnostic imaging modality for most suspected bowel obstructions. Additional commonly used imaging modalities include plain radiographs and contrast imaging/fluoroscopy, while less commonly utilized imaging modalities include ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. Regardless of the imaging modality used, interpretation of imaging should involve a systematic, methodological approach to ensure diagnostic accuracy.

A comprehensive radiologic review of abdominal and pelvic torsions

The clinical manifestations of abdominal and pelvic organ torsion can often be non-specific and can affect a wide range of ages and demographic groups. Radiologists have a key role in not only establishing the diagnosis of organ torsion, but also in the assessment of potential complications. As multiple imaging modalities may be utilized in the evaluation of abdominal and pelvic pain, recognizing the various appearances of organ torsion is important to ensure early diagnosis and thereby reducing patient morbidity and mortality, particularly since abdominal and pelvic organ torsion may not be clinically suspected at the time of initial patient presentation.

Risk factors affecting failure of colonoscopic detorsion for sigmoid colon volvulus: a single center experience

PURPOSE

Colonoscopic detorsion (CD) is the first treatment option for uncomplicated sigmoid volvulus (SV). We aim to examine the factors affecting the failure of CD.

METHODS

The files of patients, treated after diagnosis of SV between January 2015 and September 2020, were retrospectively reviewed. Patients' demographic data, comorbidities, endoscopy reports, and surgical and other treatments were recorded. Patients were divided into two groups, as the successful CD group and unsuccessful CD group. The data were compared between the groups, and multivariate analysis of statistically significant variables was performed.

RESULTS

There were 21 patients in the unsuccessful CD group and 52 patients in the successful CD group. The unsuccessful CD rate was found to be 28.76%; this is likely a function of more neuropsychiatric disease, more accompanying sigmoid diverticulum, previous abdominal surgery, abdominal tenderness, onset of symptoms for more than 48 h, higher mean intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), IAP over 15 mmHg, larger mean diameter of the cecum, the cecum diameter over 10 cm, and higher mean C-reactive protein (CRP) values as statistically significant. In the multivariate analysis, previous abdominal surgery and cecum diameter over 10 cm were seen as predictive factors for failure of CD (p=0.049, OR=0.103, and p = 0.028, OR=10.540, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

CD failure rate was significantly associated with previous abdominal surgery and a cecum diameter over 10 cm. We found that patients with these factors will tend to need more emergency surgery.

Diagnosis and Management of Colonic Volvulus

An 88-year-old man with no significant medical history, and in a good state of health, presented to the emergency department with 4 days of obstipation, progressive abdominal pain, and bloating. Examination revealed abdominal distension and generalized tenderness without signs of peritonitis. Laboratory values, including lactate and complete blood count, were within normal limits. Computed tomography imaging of the abdomen and pelvis revealed radiological signs of sigmoid volvulus and no evidence of bowel perforation (Fig. 1). Flexible sigmoidoscopic examination revealed no evidence of mucosal ischemia and enabled detorsion of the colon. The patient's symptoms resolved after the detorsion. He was seen in consultation by a surgeon who advised surgical treatment only if the volvulus recurred. After hospital discharge, the patient self-educated about sigmoid volvulus and sought a second surgical opinion. Five weeks after his initial presentation and 1 week after complete colonoscopy, he underwent laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with colorectal anastomosis. His postoperative course was uneventful. At 6-month follow-up, he remained well with no bowel-related concerns.

Initial Computed Tomography Findings of Long and Distended Colon Are Risk Factors for the Recurrence of Sigmoid Volvulus

BACKGROUND

Sigmoid volvulus is a common condition in elderly patients with elongated colons. Although endoscopic de-torsion is effective as the primary treatment of sigmoid volvulus, elective surgery is recommended because of the high risk of recurrence and high mortality rate.

AIM

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for the recurrence of sigmoid volvulus.

METHODS

Clinical records of patients treated at Shimane Prefectural Central Hospital were reviewed retrospectively. Among 41 sigmoid volvulus patients who were successfully treated by endoscopic de-torsion and followed up, 30 were observed over 1 year. Among the 30 patients, eight (26.7%) did not experience recurrence, while 22 (73.3%) did. Initial computed tomography (CT) findings indicating the sigmoid colon extending to the diaphragm or ventral to the liver were defined as "extension findings." Extension findings and sigmoid diameter were evaluated in relation to sigmoid volvulus recurrence.

RESULTS

Extension findings were significantly more frequent in the recurrent group (77.3%) than in the nonrecurrent group (25.0%) (P = 0.009). Distended sigmoid colon diameter was significantly larger in the recurrent group (11.7 ± 3.8 cm) than in the nonrecurrent group (7.1 ± 1.1 cm) (P = 0.044). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that the performance threshold was greater than 8.9 cm. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed the significantly high sigmoid volvulus recurrence rate in the patients with extension findings and a distended sigmoid colon greater than 8.9 cm.

CONCLUSIONS

CT findings of a long and distended sigmoid colon in initial sigmoid volvulus are risk factors for the recurrence of sigmoid volvulus.

Large-bowel obstruction: CT findings, pitfalls, tips and tricks

Large bowel obstruction (LBO) is associated with high morbidity and mortality due to delayed diagnosis and/or treatment. MDCT has become the standard of care to identify the site, severity, and etiology of obstruction. The goal of this review is fourfold. The first objective is to give clues to differentiate LBO from colonic pseudo-obstruction. The second objective is to describe CT features in the most common cause of LBO which is colonic cancer by illustrating classical and atypical features of colonic cancer responsible for LBO and by giving the features which must be reported when differentiating malignant from benign: presence of local lymph nodes, other colic localizations, length of involved segment, presence of diverticula, or other. The third objective is to illustrate the various causes of LBO which can mimic a colon cancer by leading to a thickening of the colonic wall: diverticulitis, ischemic colitis, endometriosis, inflammatory disease and to give tips which permit to evoke another diagnosis than a colon cancer in patient with a LBO and a thickening of the colic wall. The fourth objective is to describe the common signs of cecal and sigmoid volvulus and to give tips for a diagnosis sometimes difficult particularly for cecal volvulus: one of two transition points according to the type of volvulus and the presence of a whirl sign with a torsion of the mesenteric vessels.

Endoscopic Management of Sigmoid Volvulus in a Debilitated Population: What Relevance?

Background

Colonic volvulus, mainly from the sigmoid, is a relatively common cause of intestinal obstruction, particularly in the elderly and in patients with debilitating conditions. The high morbi-mortality of emergency surgery places the endoscopic approach as the first-line treatment for the resolution of this acute obstructive condition.

Objectives

To assess the importance of endoscopic treatment for the resolution of colonic volvulus in a debilitated population.

Method

This is a retrospective analysis of emergency lower gastrointestinal endoscopies in patients with colonic volvulus as diagnosis, performed over a 9-year period (2009-2018), as well as population characterization and follow-up after the first exam.

Results

We performed 88 procedures in 52 patients (56.4% males, median age 83 years, range 33-94). Endoscopic resolution was effective in 86.4% (76/88) of the exams, without procedure complications. Eighty-one percent of patients presented with volvulus recurrence, 50% of which occurred during the 3 months after the initial procedure. Twenty-one were submitted to surgery, 12 of which were emergency procedures after endoscopic failure as the primary treatment (5 of which had mucosal necrosis at endoscopy). There was no mortality in elective surgery. In the emergency plus necrosis group, mortality was 60% (3/5) and 14.3% (1/7) in the emergency without necrosis group.

Conclusions

Despite the high recurrence of volvulus after endoscopic treatment, it seems to be an adequate and low-risk first-line therapy for sigmoid volvulus in debilitated patients, allowing improvement of surgical conditions.

Acute Colonic Volvulus in a Mexican Population: A Case Series

Purpose

Colonic volvulus constitutes a significant cause of large bowel obstruction in adults. Most studies of colonic volvulus come from high endemic zones and are limited by the small number of patients. In our region, there is a shortage of studies concerning this disorder, and treatment of colonic volvulus remains controversial.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of 34 patients who presented with colonic volvulus at a single academic institution in a 4-year period and their respective treatment and outcomes.

Results

A total of 34 patients, 17 males (50%) and 17 females (50%), with a mean age of 55 ± 23.9 years underwent treatment for colonic volvulus. Twelve patients (35.3%) underwent initial decompression, followed by a Hartman procedure in 4 patients (11.7%) and sigmoid resection with primary anastomosis in 3 patients (8.8%), with 3 fatalities (8.8%) following initial decompression. Two patients (5.8%) were lost to follow-up. Twenty-two patients (64.7%) underwent emergency surgery, of whom 16 (47%) underwent a Hartman procedure, with colorectal anastomosis in 9 patients (26.4%), with 3 fatalities (8.8%) immediately after the first procedure. Four patients (11.7%) were lost to follow up after the Hartman procedure. Of the 6 remaining patients (17.6%), of the emergency surgical group, 3 patients (8.8%) had an initial sigmoidectomy and primary anastomosis, and the remaining 3 patients (8.8%) had a cecal volvulus with a right hemicolectomy performed with primary anastomosis in 2 patients (5.8%) and with a fatality in the remaining patient, on whom a terminal ileostomy was performed for damage control. The mean hospital stay was 5.7 days, with an overall mortality rate of 23.5%.

Conclusion

Acute colonic volvulus in our region is not as uncommon as in other parts of the world. This disorder must be suspected when a patient presents with abdominal pain, abdominal distension, and bean sign on plain X-rays and/or a whirl sign on computed tomography scan.

Outcomes of first-line endoscopic management for patients with sigmoid volvulus

BACKGROUND

Sigmoid volvulus is a common cause of colonic obstruction in old and frail patients. Its standard management includes the endoscopic detorsion of the colonic loop, followed by an elective sigmoidectomy to prevent recurrence. However, these patients are often poor candidates for surgery.

AIM

The aim of this study was to compare death rate between elective sigmoidectomy and conservative management following endoscopic detorsion for sigmoid volvulus.

METHODS

The medical records of 83 patients undergoing endoscopic detorsion of a sigmoid volvulus from 2008 to 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups: 'elective surgery' and 'no surgery'.

RESULTS

Patients in the 'no surgery' group (n = 42) were older and had more loss of autonomy than in the 'elective surgery' group. Volvulus endoscopic detorsion was successful in 96% of patients with no complications. The median follow-up was 13 months (1 day-67 months). The death rate was 62% in the 'no surgery' group versus 32% in the 'elective surgery' group (p = 0.02). In the 'no surgery' group, 23/42 of patients had volvulus recurrence. No recurrence occurred after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Elective surgery must be planned as soon as possible after the first episode of sigmoid volvulus. In frail patients, other options must be developed.

Synchronous volvulus of the sigmoid and transverse colon in a 26-year-old male

We present a 26-year-old male patient who presented with complete bowel obstruction and peritonitis. His abdominal X-rays showed grossly distended large bowels with air–fluid levels. A differential diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus was entertained and the patient was taken for an exploratory laparotomy. Intraoperatively, we found a sigmoid volvulus and a concurrent transverse colon volvulus. A subtotal colectomy and colostomy was performed. The histopathology results showed mucosal and submucosal congestion, chronic inflammation, and no malignancy or dysplasia. Synchronous volvulus of the sigmoid and transverse colon is an extremely rare. Management includes endoscopic derotation and decompression followed by semi-elective surgery in non-complicated cases. When endoscopic decompression has failed or there is suspicion of necrosis or perforation, surgery is mandatory.

Use of Postmortem Computed Tomography to Detect Bowel Obstruction and its Relationship to the Cause of Death

Bowel distension frequently indicates bowel obstruction, which is a common diagnosis in clinical radiology. Typically, symptoms and complaints lead to radiological examinations and the detection of the etiology. Untreated intestinal obstructions can lead to a fatal outcome through cardiac failure due to septic shock. Certain of these cases undergo medicolegal investigations depending on the case history, the condition of the decedent, the location of the finding, or recent visits to medical professionals. Computed tomography (CT) is a recommended method in clinical radiology for the detection of bowel obstruction, which is indicated by bowel distension and further radiological signs (eg, the whirl sign, which indicates a volvulus). Postmortem CT (PMCT) has increased worldwide, but PMCT differs from clinical CT; thus, the question of whether PMCT is also reliable for the detection of bowel obstruction in decedents or is negatively affected by postmortem modifications should be discussed. This study consists of 10 cases displaying radiological signs of bowel obstruction. Apart from bowel distension, the most common radiological signs (whirl sign, coffee bean sign, bird beak sign, and u-shape sign) are described and depicted. All decedents underwent autopsy and had a postmortem interval of less than 72 hours. Based on these cases, we assess the reliability of PMCT for detecting bowel obstruction and determining its relationship to the cause of death.

The steel pan sign of sigmoid volvulus-A case series

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The CT scan finding of sigmoid volvulus is closely resembles to the percussion instrument known as “steel pan”.

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This Steel pan sign has not yet been described in the literature for sigmoid volvulus.

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The sign is easier to recognize on CT scan of the abdomen and in some cases on plain abdominal X- rays.

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This easily recognized symbol enables faster diagnosis and earlier treatment of this disease, thus reducing the morbidity and mortality.

Introduction

Signs in radiology are usually based on many common objects or patterns that are easily recognizable in everyday life. The objective behind this association is to aid in the understanding and diagnosis of the disease process. These signs can be seen in different imaging modalities such as plain radiograph and computed tomography.

Presentation of case

4 consecutive cases of sigmoid volvulus presented at our tertiary hospital between January 2016 and June 2017. 2 of these cases were managed surgically and others were managed conservatively. The CT scan and abdominal radiographs in these patients were reviewed with consultant radiologist, which bear resemblance to the percussion instrument known as the steel pan.

Discussion

The literature has described few radiological signs of sigmoid volvulus in the past. In the following case series, we would like to introduce the “Steel pan Sign”, a novel radiological pattern which bears a close resemblance to the percussion instrument known as the steel pan. The Steel pan sign is easier to recognize on CT scan of the abdomen. However, in some cases it can be seen on plain X-Rays.

Conclusion

The appearance of sigmoid volvulus on CT scans as well as on plain abdominal X-rays bears a significant resemblance to the pattern observed on the face of the Trinidadian steel pan, the recognition of which can aid in the diagnosis of this disease.

Organo-axial volvulus of the small intestine: radiological case report and consideration for its mechanism

Gastrointestinal volvulus is mainly classified into two subtypes, mesentero-axial volvulus and organo-axial volvulus. The detailed imaging findings of organo-axial volvulus of the small intestine have never been reported as far as we know. In this article, we report a case of organo-axial volvulus of the small intestine, focusing on the computed tomography (CT) findings. An 80-year-old man was radiologically diagnosed as having organo-axial volvulus of the terminal ileum and it was confirmed by open surgery without adhesion or any other anatomical abnormalities. CT showed two specific findings, split-bowel sign and rotating-C sign, which we think reflect pathophysiologic features of organo-axial volvulus. We think the pathogenic mechanism of organo-axial volvulus can be explained by the convergence of the reversed-rotational twist following the formation of a twisted but non-obstructive circular loop, even if there is no adhesion. Radiologists should be aware that organo-axial volvulus can occur even in the small intestine, and in the case of small bowel obstruction with single transition point, the two pathophysiologic signs mentioned above must be looked for to diagnose the possibility of organo-axial volvulus.

Pediatric colonic volvulus: A single-institution experience and review

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Pediatric colonic volvulus is both rare and underreported. Existing literature consists only of case reports and small series. We present an analysis of cases (n=11) over 15 years at a single institution, focusing on workup and diagnosis.

METHODS

This was an institutional review board approved single-institution retrospective chart review of 11 cases of large bowel volvulus occurring over 15 years (2000-2015).

RESULTS

In our series, the most common presenting symptoms were abdominal pain and distention. Afflicted patients often had prior abdominal surgery, a neurodevelopmental disorder or chronic constipation. Of the imaging modalities utilized in the 11 patients studied, colonic volvulus was correctly diagnosed by barium enema in 100% of both cases, CT in 55.6% of cases and by plain radiography of the abdomen in only 22.2%of cases. Colonic volvulus was confirmed by laparotomy in all cases. The cecum (n=5) was the most often affected colonic segment, followed by the sigmoid (n=3). Operative treatment mainly consisted of resection (63.6%) and ostomy creation (36.4%). Colopexy was performed in 18.2% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Plain abdominal radiography may be performed as an initial diagnostic study, however, it should be followed CT or air or contrast enema in children where there is high clinical suspicion and who do not have indications for immediate laparotomy. CT may be the most specific and useful test in diagnosis of colonic volvulus and has the added advantage of detection of complications including bowel ischemia. We demonstrate a range of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for pediatric colonic volvulus. This underscores the need for further study to draft standard best practices for this life-threatening condition.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognosis Study: Level IV. Study of a Diagnostic Test: Level III.

Large Bowel Obstruction in the Emergency Department: Imaging Spectrum of Common and Uncommon Causes

Although large bowel obstruction (LBO) is less common than small bowel obstruction, it is associated with high morbidity and mortality due to delayed diagnosis and/or treatment. Plain radiographs are sufficient to diagnose LBO in a majority of patients. However, further evaluation with multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) has become the standard of care to identify the site, severity, and etiology of obstruction. In this comprehensive review, we illustrate the various causes of LBO emphasizing the role of MDCT in the initial diagnosis and detection of complications along with the tips to differentiate from disease which can mimic LBO.

Usability of elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy and feasibility of single-incision laparoscopic surgery for sigmoid volvulus: report of three cases

A therapeutic guideline for sigmoid volvulus (SV) has not been established, and the most recommended surgical procedure for SV has not been determined. Our objective is to assess the usability of elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy and the feasibility of single-incision laparoscopic surgery for SV following endoscopic reduction. SV typically affects the elderly and accounts for 1% to 7% of intestinal obstructions in Western countries. We report on 3 patients with SV who underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy following endoscopic reduction, and we first describe single-port surgery for SV. We discuss the 3 patients (a 79-year-old male, an 88-year-old female, and a 67-year-old female) with SV who underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy following endoscopic reduction. All 3 patients underwent laparoscopic sigmoidectomy, and 2 patients underwent single-port laparoscopic surgery without complications. Recurrence of volvulus was not seen during the course of 12 to 24 months. In experienced hands, elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy after colonoscopic detorsion is a valuable alternative, and single-port surgery is also feasible.

Computed tomography of bowel obstruction: tricks of the trade

Bowel obstruction (BO) is a frequent cause of hospitalization and surgical consultation for acute abdominal pain. It is usually suspected at physical examination, but clinical and laboratory data are often nonspecific. Thus, computed tomography plays a crucial role in a correct diagnosis of BO. Indeed, computed tomography can confirm a diagnosis of BO, and identify the location and cause of the obstruction. In this review, the computed tomography appearances of common and uncommon causes of BO and pseudo-obstruction are reviewed.

The role of sigmoidoscopy in thediagnosis and treatment of sigmoid volvulus

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is a rare form of acute intestinal obstruction in which the sigmoid colon wraps around itself. The disease generally presents as a mechanical bowel obstruction with clinical features that are not pathognomonic. Similarly, X-ray films are not diagnostic in most cases. It is difficult to establish the correct preoperative diagnosis when CT and MRI are not used.

The principal strategy in the treatment of SV in uncomplicated patients is emergency endoscopic detorsion followed by elective surgery; emergent surgery is required in patients with bowel gangrene, bowel perforation, peritonitis, or unsuccessful endoscopic treatment.

In this review, we have discussed the role of sigmoidoscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of SV. Additionally, we have retrospectively and prospectively evaluated our 49-year, 987-patient clinical experience, the largest single-center SV series ever reported.

Large-Bowel Obstruction in the Adult: Classic Radiographic and CT Findings, Etiology, and Mimics

Large-bowel obstruction is an abdominal emergency with high morbidity and mortality rates if left untreated. Although abdominal radiography is usually the initial imaging study performed in patients suspected of having large-bowel obstruction, it may not be sufficient to distinguish obstruction from other causes of colonic dilatation. Computed tomography is the imaging method of choice as it can establish the diagnosis and cause of large-bowel obstruction. A contrast agent enema may be used to confirm or exclude large-bowel obstruction. In this review, the imaging findings in multiple causes of large-bowel obstruction are illustrated and compared with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction.

Recurrent Sigmoid Volvulus Associated With Eventration of Diaphragm in a Twenty-Six-Year-Old Man

Recurrent sigmoid volvulus is a clinical entity characterized by recurrent episodes of partial or complete sigmoid volvulus. Although it is commonly seen in the elderly, it can be occasionally seen in younger patients. Patients with recurrent partial sigmoid volvulus are relatively asymptomatic or present with mild abdominal pain. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent conversion to acute gangrenous volvulus. We present a case of recurrent partial sigmoid volvulus in association with eventration of diaphragm in a 26-year-old man.

Colorectal emergencies and related complications: a comprehensive imaging review--noninfectious and noninflammatory emergencies of colon

OBJECTIVE

In this article, we illustrate imaging findings of colorectal emergencies encountered in the acute setting that are primarily noninfectious and noninflammatory in origin. Our review should enable the reader to identify and understand common colorectal emergencies and related complications in clinical practice.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis of colorectal emergencies is mostly straightforward, but it can be challenging because of the overlap of presenting symptoms and imaging findings. Therefore, it is essential to clarify the cause, narrow the differential diagnosis, and identify associated complications.

Imaging of common solid organ and bowel torsion in the emergency department

OBJECTIVE

This article will discuss the most common forms of torsion encountered in the emergency department.

CONCLUSION

Torsion refers to the twisting of an object about its axis and represents the pathophysiologic mechanism underlying an important group of disorders affecting both the bowel and the solid organs of the abdomen and pelvis. Although these disorders typically present with the acute onset of pain, clinical findings are often nonspecific, with imaging playing a key role in diagnosis. Missed or delayed diagnosis may result in complications, such as ischemia; end-organ loss; and, in some cases, death. Therefore, it is critical to have a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology and imaging findings of these entities to avoid the morbidity and mortality associated with a missed or delayed diagnosis.