Spleno-Sigmoid Knotting - An Unfamiliar Cause of Intestinal Obstruction

INTRODUCTION

Spleno-sigmoid knotting is the twisting of the spleen around the sigmoid colon, causing obstruction of the sigmoid colon. It is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction. To our knowledge, there has been no previous case report of spleno-sigmoid knotting before our case.

CASE REPORT

Here, we present the case of an 18-year-old female patient who visited the surgical emergency outpatient department with diffuse and progressive abdominal pain lasting for one and a half days. She also experienced obstipation and frequent episodes of vomiting of ingested matter. Upon initial evaluation, she exhibited tachycardia and tachypnea, and her abdomen was grossly distended with diffuse direct and rebound tenderness. Further investigation revealed significant leukocytosis with neutrophil predominance. Emergency laparotomy was performed with a possible diagnosis of generalized peritonitis secondary to gangrenous sigmoid volvulus, which revealed gangrenous spleno-sigmoid knotting.

DISCUSSION

Various types of intestinal knots have been reported, with ileo-sigmoid knots being the most common and ileo-ileal knots being the rarest. Wandering spleen is a rare congenital anomaly with a variable clinical presentation ranging from asymptomatic to mild abdominal pain or acute abdomen due to torsion or acute pancreatitis. It can also cause intestinal obstruction, which may be the initial presentation.

CONCLUSION

In patients presenting with acute abdominal pain and features of bowel obstruction, the possibility of spleno-sigmoid knotting should be considered, and early intervention should be instituted to prevent gangrenous progression and sepsis.

Notable Clinical Differences Between Neonatal and Post-Neonatal Intestinal Malrotation: A Multicenter Review in Southern Japan

BACKGROUND

Most cases of intestinal malrotation appear in neonates with bilious vomiting due to midgut volvulus, whereas in cases that develop beyond infancy, the initial symptoms vary. This study investigated the clinical features of these two populations and identified issues that should be considered in daily practice.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was conducted from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2022. Data on patients with intestinal malrotation were collected in an anonymized fashion from five pediatric surgical hub facilities in the Southern Kyushu and Okinawa areas of Japan.

RESULTS

Of the 80 subjects, 57 (71.3%) were neonates (Group N) and 23 (28.7%) were infants and schoolchildren (Group I). The frequencies of initial symptoms, such as abdominal distention (Group N: 19.3% vs. Group I: 13.0%), bilious vomiting (59.6% vs. 43.5%), and hematochezia (8.8% vs. 21.7%), were not skewed by the age of onset (p = 0.535, 0.087, and 0.141, respectively). Midgut volvulus was significantly more frequent in Group N (71.9% [41/57] vs. 34.8% [8/23]; p = 0.005), while the degree of torsion was greater in group I (median 360° [interquartile range: 180-360°] vs. 450° [360-540°]; p = 0.029). Although the bowel resection rate was equivalent (7.0% [4/57] vs. 4.3% [1/23]; p = 1.000), half of the patients in Group N presented with 180° torsion. The neonatal intestine has been highlighted as being more susceptible to ischemia than that in older children.

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of midgut volvulus is higher in neonates than in older children. Even relatively mild torsion can cause ischemic bowel changes during the neonatal period.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

LEVEL III.

Navigating Inconclusive Upper-Gastrointestinal Series in Infantile Bilious Vomiting: A Case Series on Intestinal Malrotation

BACKGROUND Bilious vomiting in a child potentially portends the dire emergency of intestinal malrotation with volvulus, necessitating prompt surgical management, with differentials including small-bowel atresia, duodenal stenosis, annular pancreas, and intussusception. Although the upper-gastrointestinal series (UGI) is the diagnostic investigation of choice, up to 15% of the studies are inconclusive, thereby posing a diagnostic challenge. CASE REPORT We report a case series of 3 children referred for bilious vomiting, whose initial UGI was inconclusive and who were eventually confirmed to have intestinal malrotation at surgery. The first child was a female born at 37 weeks with antenatally diagnosed situs inversus and levocardia, who developed bilious vomiting on day 1 of life. The duodenojejunal flexure (DJ) could not be visualized on the UGI because of faint opacification on first pass of the contrast and subsequent overlap with the proximal jejunal loops. The second child was a male born at 36 weeks, presenting at age 4 months with bilious vomiting of 2 days duration. The third child was a female born at 29 weeks, presenting with bilious aspirates on day 3 of life. UGI for all 3 showed persistent hold-up of contrast at the proximal duodenum with no opacification of the distal duodenum or small bowel.Adjunctive techniques during the UGI and ultrasound examination helped achieve a preoperative diagnosis of malrotation in these children. CONCLUSIONS Application of diagnostic adjuncts to an inconclusive initial UGI may help elucidate a preoperative diagnosis of intestinal malrotation in infantile bilious vomiting.

INTESTINAL TYMPANY AND VOLVULUS IN CENTRAL AMERICAN RIVER TURTLES (DERMATEMYS MAWII)

Ten cases of small intestinal tympany with or without volvulus were documented in Central American river turtles (Dermatemys mawii). These turtles were under managed care at the Philadelphia Zoo in Philadelphia, PA, USA, with one case followed after transfer to a different institution. The primary clinical presentation was abnormal buoyancy in nearly all cases (9/10) and anorexia in two cases (2/10). Five of 10 turtles with suspected or radiographically confirmed small intestinal tympany recovered (5/10), whereas five cases (5/ 10) resulted in death or euthanasia. In all fatal cases (5/5), small intestinal volvulus was identified at gross necropsy, with concurrent colonic volvulus identified in 2/5 cases. Other notable necropsy findings were hepatic lipidosis (3/5) and thrombosis of intestinal or renal vasculature (2/5). In all fatal cases (5/5), there was short (1 to 2 days) clinical progression from abnormal buoyancy to death or euthanasia. In the majority of cases (6/10), an abrupt change in diet, notably the overfeeding of fresh fruit or excessive amounts of mulberry (Morus spp.) browse, or ingestion of indigestible foreign material, occurred prior to presentation. Temporary suboptimal environmental temperatures were suspected prior to the onset of clinical signs in 4/10 cases. Optimal husbandry conditions including nutrition and environmental temperature appear vital to preventing this condition. Recognition of early clinical signs of this condition, such as abnormal buoyancy and anorexia, and environmental correction or medical therapy, may prevent fatality and result in a better outcome in these cases.

Small intestinal volvulus in 47 cows

Objective

To describe the findings, treatment, and outcome of small intestinal volvulus (SIV) in 47 cows.

Animals and procedure

Retrospective analysis of medical records. Comparison of the findings for 18 surviving and 29 non-surviving cows.

Results

The most common abnormal vital signs were tachycardia (68.0%), tachypnea (59.6%), and decreased rectal temperature (51.1%). Signs of colic occurred in 66.0% of cows in the study. Rumen motility was reduced or absent in 93.6% of cows, and intestinal motility in 76.6%. Clinical signs on ballottement and/or percussion and simultaneous auscultation were positive on the right side in 78.7% of cows. Transrectal examination showed dilated small intestines in 48.9% of cows. The rectum contained little or no feces in 93.6% of cows. The principal laboratory abnormalities were hypocalcemia (74.1%), hypokalemia (73.8%), azotemia (62.8%), hypermagnesemia (61.6%), and hemoconcentration (60.0%). The principal ultrasonographic findings were dilated small intestines (87.1%) and reduced or absent small intestinal motility (85.2%). Forty-one of the 47 cows underwent right flank laparotomy and the SIV was reduced in 21 cows. When comparing the clinical and laboratory findings of 18 surviving and 29 non-surviving cows, the groups differed significantly with respect to severely abnormal general condition (16.7 versus 37.9%), rumen stasis (22.2 versus 79.3%), intestinal atony (16.7 versus 48.3%), serum urea concentration (6.5 versus 9.8 mmol/L), and serum magnesium concentration (0.98 versus 1.30 mmol/L). In summary, 38.3% of the cows were discharged and 61.7% were euthanized before, during, or after surgery.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

An acute course of disease, little or no feces in the rectum, and dilated small intestines were characteristic of SIV in this study population.

Adult-onset congenital intestinal malrotation: A case report and literature review

BACKGROUND

Intestinal malrotation is an infrequent congenital anomaly primarily observed in neonates, and adult-onset cases are exceedingly rare. Studies on adult congenital intestinal malrotation are limited.

METHODS

A case with congenital intestinal malrotation is reported in our study. The clinical data were collected and the treatment process and effect were evaluated.

RESULTS

A 45-year-old female who had been experiencing vomiting for over 40 years was admitted to our hospital. According to the result of CT scan, intestinal volvulus accompanied by bowel obstruction was suspected. Then laparoscopic examination was applied to the patient and was ultimately diagnosed with adult congenital intestinal malrotation. We performed Ladd's procedure combined with gastrojejunostomy and Braun anastomosis. The patient recovered well and was successfully discharged from the hospital on the 13th day after surgery. After a 6-month follow-up, the symptom of vomiting was significantly alleviated and body weight was gained for 10 kg. She was very satisfied with the treatment.

CONCLUSION

Adult congenital intestinal malrotation is a rare disease that is often misdiagnosed owing to nonspecific clinical manifestations. Therefore, awareness about this condition should be enhanced. Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment for this disease. Combining gastrojejunostomy and Braun anastomosis with the traditional Ladd procedure can optimize surgical outcomes.

Outcomes for sigmoid volvulus managed with and without early definitive surgery: 20-year experience in a tertiary referral centre

BACKGROUND

Sigmoid volvulus is rare in Western countries. Patients at risk of sigmoid volvulus are often older with significant co-morbidity. Without sigmoid colectomy there is a high recurrence rate, but indications for surgery are controversial.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted by reviewing clinical records of patients admitted to Waikato Hospital 1 January 2000 to 1 January 2020 with a diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus. Patient characteristics, clinical features, investigations, management, and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-two patients (87 male) were included with 203 volvulus episodes. Median age 76 years, median Charlson co-morbidity index (CCI) 4. Median follow-up 11 years. 44/132 (33.3%) had surgery during the index admission, two had elective surgery and the remainder had planned non-operative management. 73/132 (55.3%) had surgery at any stage. 42/86 (48.8%) patients managed non-operatively recurred; 66.7% of recurrences were within 6 months. Forty-three (32.6%) died within 12 months of index admission; 28 (21.2%) died during an admission for volvulus. On univariate analysis higher age and abnormal vital signs were associated with inpatient and 12-month mortality; higher CCI was associated with 12-month mortality. On multi-variate analysis increasing age in years was associated with increased risk of death (HR 1.089 [1.052-1.128, P < 0.001]). Normal vital signs at presentation were associated with decreased risk of death (HR 0.147 [0.065-0.334, P < 0.001]).

CONCLUSION

Sigmoid colectomy should be considered at index presentation with sigmoid volvulus. Half of patients managed non-operatively recurred, with two-thirds recurring within 6 months. The mortality rate remains high for subsequent volvulus episodes.

Small bowel obstruction in adults, Ladd's band is an exceptional cause: a case report

Malrotation of the gut is a congenital anomaly of foetal intestinal rotation and it's principally discovered in early childhood as acute intestinal obstruction. This condition is veritably rare and constantly silent in adults. Intestinal malrotation in adults is frequently asymptomatic and is diagnosed as a casual finding during a radiological examination performed for other reasons. Infrequently, it can be diagnosed in adults, associated with an acute abdomen. Adult patients rarely present with acute midgut volvulus or internal hernias caused by Ladd's bands. We present a case of an admitted 18-year-old female with a small bowel obstruction due to an intestinal volvulus complicating intestinal malrotation in the presence of Ladd's band. Laparotomic Ladd's procedure was performed successfully with division of Ladd's band, adhesiolysis, appendicectomy, and reorientation of the small bowel on the right and the cecum and colon on the left of the abdominal cavity; the postoperative evolution was favorable. Although it is a rare pathology, it should be kept in mind in cases of patients presenting small bowel obstruction.

Compound volvulus: ileosigmoid knot

Compound volvulus, also known as ileosigmoid knot, is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction due to twisting of the small bowel around the large bowel or vice-versa. It poses a diagnostic dilemma due to the presence of features of closed-loop obstruction of both the small and large bowel. Being a surgical emergency due to the rapid progression to gangrene of involved segments leading to septicaemia, early suspicion of the disease entity, adequate resuscitation and prompt treatment are the need of the hour. Three cases encountered and managed in our setting are described here with a review of the literature.

Primary small intestinal lymphangiosarcoma in a dog presenting with a segmental partial mesenteric volvulus

A 3-year-old Great Dane presented with a history of chronic vomiting and diarrhoea. Abdominal computed tomography followed by exploratory laparotomy revealed a perforated, segmental partial mesenteric volvulus, affecting an abnormal section of distal jejunum, which was resected. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry results were consistent with jejunal lymphangiosarcoma. This case represents the first report of primary small intestinal lymphangiosarcoma in dogs and the importance of immunohistochemistry for definitive diagnosis.

Management of Recurrent Sigmoid Volvulus in the Pediatric Population

Sigmoid volvulus is a rare etiology of bowel obstruction in the pediatric population that can be easily misdiagnosed, leading to delayed treatment and potential complications. Given that sigmoid volvulus is a common cause of bowel obstruction in the adult population and the significant lack of literature on its management in children, treatment strategies for pediatric patients often follow standardized protocols for adults. We report the case of a 15-year-old boy who presented with recurrent episodes of sigmoid volvulus over a 1-month period. Computed tomography demonstrated a sigmoid volvulus without evidence of ischemia or bowel infarction. Colonoscopy demonstrated a descending megacolon, and bowel transit studies demonstrated normal transit time. Acute episodes were managed conservatively with colonoscopic decompression. After a complete study, laparoscopic sigmoidectomy was performed. This work demonstrates the importance of early recognition and treatment of sigmoid volvulus in the pediatric population to limit recurrent episodes.

Eosinophilic Myenteric Ganglionitis Presenting as Sigmoid Volvulus: A Brief Report

Eosinophilic myenteric ganglionitis (EMG) is a rare pathologic finding within the Auerbach myenteric plexus characterized by eosinophilic infiltration on light microscopy. The plexus's ultimate obliteration results in chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO). EMG is almost exclusively seen in the pediatric population. The diagnosis of EMG is made through full-thickness rectal biopsy and EMG is not detectable through routine screening measures such as imaging or colonoscopy. The current treatment modality for this disorder is not standardized, and has often been treated with systemic steroids given its eosinophilic involvement. This case presents a 73-year-old male with chronic constipation presenting with new obstipation in the setting of recent orthopedic intervention requiring outpatient opioids. Admission radiographs were consistent with sigmoid volvulus. Following endoscopic detorsion, exploratory laparotomy revealed diffuse colonic dilation and distal ischemia requiring a Hartmann's procedure. Surgical pathology revealed EMG, increasing the complexity of subsequent surgical decision-making after his urgent operation.

Duodenal Volvulus due to Duodenum Inversum

Duodenum inversum, or inverted duodenum, is a rare congenital disorder resulting in an abnormal position of the third and/or fourth portions of the duodenum. Most patients are asymptomatic, but others can experience pain, nausea, vomiting, peptic ulcer disease, pancreatitis, and even intestinal obstruction. In this case, we report a patient who presented with acute abdominal pain and vomiting. He was diagnosed with duodenal volvulus and obstruction due to duodenum inversum. After failing nonoperative management, the patient was successfully treated with surgical resection.

Upper gastrointestinal series in healthy neonates with bilious vomiting-is it still obvious? A retrospective observational study

AIM

Demand for upper gastrointestinal contrast series (UGI) to investigate bilious vomiting (BV) has increased in recent years, mostly due to greater awareness of the need to rule out malrotation and midgut volvulus (MGV). We aimed to examine predictive value of clinical parameters in the management of healthy neonates presenting with BV and re-assess the role of UGI in their management.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study including medical, imaging and surgical data of neonates who underwent UGI due to BV.

RESULTS

A total of 157 term neonates, eight neonates (5.1%) had confirmed surgical diagnosis of malrotation, five of them had malrotation with MGV, including two neonates who underwent extensive intestinal resection due to necrosis. Neonates with a combination of abnormal plain radiograph and abdominal distention had 10 times higher odds of malrotation diagnosis, adjusting for age at first BV (p = 0.017). Neonates with a combination of abnormal plain radiograph, abdominal distention and abdominal tenderness had 25 times higher odds of MGV (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

This study reaffirms the role of UGI as the current main diagnostic tool for malrotation and MGV. Physical examination and plain radiograph findings can help but cannot substitute UGI study.

Neurofibromatosis Type I Presenting with Incomplete Ileal Volvulus in a Pediatric Patient

BACKGROUND Neurofibromatosis 1 is a neurocutaneous disorder with multisystemic manifestations. When patients are lacking overt cutaneous manifestations, diagnosis may be delayed and may complicate diagnosis and management of atypical presentations of this disease. It is thus important to strive to obtain relevant and/or complete history to arrive at the appropriate diagnosis. Furthermore, maintaining an index of suspicion in cases of vague abdominal pain may guide the clinician in establishing the correct diagnosis of mesenteric plexiform neurofibroma in the setting of known/presumed neurofibromatosis 1 patients presenting with acute and/or chronic vague abdominal symptoms. CASE REPORT This is a case of a teenage boy who presented with acute, vague abdominal pain over a period of 2 weeks. Laboratory tests and physical exam findings in primary and secondary care settings were unremarkable, and thus the patient was discharged home only to continue with abdominal pain, thus seeking additional medical care. After admission to our facility and exhaustive history taking, physical examination, and imaging, a prospective diagnosis of neurofibromatosis with mesenteric neurofibroma was made. Upon surgical exploration, a mesenteric mass with corresponding volvulized, ischemic small bowel was removed. Histopathology confirmed a plexiform neurofibroma. The patient recovered adequately and was discharged home without complications. CONCLUSIONS This case highlights the importance of exhaustive history taking to obtain an accurate diagnosis as well as the importance of a high index of clinical suspicion for mesenteric neurofibromatosis in patients with presumed or known neurofibromatosis and presenting with vague abdominal symptoms.

Partial volvulus, entrapment, and extraluminal obstruction of the jejunum in a cat

A 2-year-old, spayed female, domestic shorthair cat was presented in compensated hypovolemic shock after 24 h of anorexia, vomiting, and lethargy. An enterotomy had been performed at 9 mo of age to remove a foreign body. Due to inconclusive findings on abdominal imaging, an exploratory laparotomy was done. An adhesion at the root of the mesentery, likely associated with the previous surgery, had resulted in partial volvulus, entrapment, and extraluminal obstruction of the jejunum. Transection of the adhesion allowed repositioning of the bowel without the need for resection. The cat was discharged from the hospital 7 d postoperatively. Adhesions have not previously been reported to cause small bowel volvulus in cats. Key clinical message: Abdominal adhesions as a cause of clinical disease in cats have apparently not been reported. This case report demonstrates how malposition of the gastrointestinal tract, secondary to adhesions, should be included as a differential diagnosis for feline patients presenting with acute abdomens. Previous abdominal surgery is a risk factor for development of adhesions. This case emphasized the importance of Halsted's principles of surgery to reduce the risk of postoperative adhesions, even in species not predisposed to forming adhesions.

IMPOWER: a national patient-generated registry for intestinal malrotation exploring diagnosis, treatment, and surgical outcomes

BACKGROUND

Intestinal malrotation is a rare congenital condition with potentially devastating consequences due to potential volvulus and massive intestinal necrosis. Diagnosis is often delayed and long-term symptoms following surgical correction are poorly characterized. We developed the Intestinal Malrotation Patient Outcomes and WEllness Registry (IMPOWER), a national patient-generated registry (PGR), to capture data related to presenting symptoms, testing, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of individuals diagnosed with malrotation. IMPOWER captures patient-reported information from adult patients and parents/caregivers of children diagnosed with malrotation at the time of enrollment and at ongoing 6-month intervals. We present baseline characteristics of patients enrolled during the first two months of the registry.

RESULTS

Within the first two months, 354 patients with malrotation enrolled in IMPOWER, and 191 (53.9%) completed all baseline assessments. Nearly 90% of the 119 pediatric participants and 37.7% of the 72 adult participants experienced symptoms prior to diagnosis. Vomiting was the predominant symptom for pediatric participants compared to abdominal pain in adults. Yellow bilious emesis was more commonly reported than green, and volvulus at diagnosis occurred in 70% of pediatric and 27% of adult participants. One-third of pediatric participants had a bowel resection as part of their initial surgical procedure, resulting in 23.4% with diagnosed short bowel syndrome. More than 60% of pediatric and 80% of adult registrants reported gastrointestinal symptoms that persisted throughout the first year following their initial operation. Approximately 25% of registrants reported visiting four or more gastroenterologists for management of ongoing symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Fewer than half of pediatric patients presented with the "classic" presentation of green bilious colored emesis. Yellow bilious emesis was more commonly reported, and chronic gastrointestinal symptoms (i.e., abdominal pain, reflux, constipation, diarrhea) and feeding intolerance were common following surgical procedures for malrotation. This novel PGR highlights the need for a multicenter prospective registry to characterize the natural history and develop consistent standards of care related to the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care for patients with malrotation.

Tension pneumothorax in a patient with Covid-19 pneumonia initially misdiagnosed as volvulus

Tension pneumothorax is a condition that can present with a myriad of symptoms, including chest pain, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, and tachycardia. If left untreated, these signs and symptoms can progress to shock causing haemodynamic collapse and even death. At times, it may be difficult to identify tension pneumothorax. We present the case of a 59-year-old male with a prolonged initial hospital course that eventually led to a diagnosis of tension pneumothorax with the use of CT scans rather than traditional X-rays. This case reinforces the idea that clinicians should have a wide differential diagnosis in mind when dealing with vague symptoms and should not hesitate to use different diagnostic modalities to help confirm a diagnosis.

Caecal volvulus in a 35-year-old man: a case report

Caecal volvulus is a rare cause of mechanical bowel obstruction (1-1.5%) that carries a high mortality rate if diagnosis or surgical intervention is delayed. We report a 35-year-old man who presented with acute colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation for the past 18 hours. A plain abdominal X-ray showed distended large bowel loops with two large well-defined air-fluid levels superimposed on each other, suggestive of caecal volvulus. The patient underwent emergency laparotomy, and the intraoperative finding confirmed the diagnosis of gangrenous extended caecal volvulus, which involves the terminal ileum, cecum, and the whole of the ascending colon. A right hemicolectomy was performed, and bowel continuity was restored by primary ileotransverse anastomosis. The patient recovered without complications and was discharged on postoperative day 6. In conclusion, caecal volvulus is a rare cause of adult intestinal obstruction. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can prevent perforation and reduce morbidity related to volvulus perforation.

Sigmoid volvulus: Evaluating identification strategies and contemporary multicenter outcomes

BACKGROUND

There is limited epidemiologic data on sigmoid volvulus (SV) from non-endemic regions. Therefore, we performed a multicenter study to report contemporary outcomes and appraise literature-based methods that pair diagnostic and procedural codes to identify SV.

METHOD

Using an automated search for patients with 'volvulus' in our system from 2011 to 2021, we reviewed electronic charts to clarify the diagnosis, automatically replicate three strategies to identify SV, and retrieved 6-month outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 895 patients, 109 had SV. Literature-based strategies poorly identified SV. At the index admission, patients underwent endoscopic reduction alone (33%), emergent (16.5%), semi-elective (34%), or elective (16.5%) surgery. Endoscopic reduction alone had high recurrence rates and delayed surgery was associated with worse outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Literature-based strategies to identify SV suffer from misclassification bias which affects patient counseling. In this large series, one-third of patients do not undergo during their index admission despite improved outcomes with earlier surgery.

[Small bowel volvulus due to a giant mesenteric lipoma]

Mesenteric lipomas are very rare. They are asymptomatic in most cases, but some patients can develop certain complications such as small bowel volvulus and acute small bowel obstruction. We report a 78-year-old patient with giant mesenteric lipoma complicated by jejunum volvulus and acute small bowel obstruction. The patient underwent laparotomy, en-bloc resection of small bowel, mesentery and lipoma followed by side-to-side anastomosis.

A rare case of intestinal malrotation in pregnancy resulting in hemicolectomy postnatally

INTRODUCTION

Small and large bowel obstruction secondary to volvulus on the background of intestinal malrotation is a very rare occurrence, especially in pregnancy. This can be associated with significant feto-maternal morbidity and mortality.

CASE REPORT

We report a case of a pregnant lady who developed symptoms of subacute intestinal obstruction during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy and was subsequently dia-gnosed with intestinal malrotation on imaging. Though she had symptoms of abdominal pain and constipation persisting for 9 long weeks during pregnancy, there was no evidence of definite intestinal obstruction or volvulus on her abdominal magnetic resonance imaging. She underwent a caesarean section at 34 weeks of pregnancy due to worsening abdominal pain. Postnatally, she was dia-gnosed with midgut volvulus on a computer tomography scan, leading to obstruction of both small and large bowels and needed an emergency laparotomy and right hemicolectomy.

CONCLUSION

The case highlights the importance of timely dia-gnosis and prompt management of intestinal obstruction in pregnancy with a multidisciplinary team approach.

[Cecal volvulus: one case and literature review]

BACKGROUND

Cecal volvulus is a rare disease that causes intestinal obstruction. It has various congenital and acquired risk factors. It is frequently associated with abnormal cecal fixation, and it is caused by torsion of the cecum in one of its three axes. It is not different from other causes of intestinal obstruction, but a delay in its diagnosis can lead to ischemia, necrosis and colon perforation. Its management depends on the viability of the tissues, ranging from untwisting and cecopexy to hemicolectomy with or without anastomosis. We present a case of caecal volvulus (caecal bascule) and review the literature as well.

CLINICAL CASE

43-year-old female, who was admitted to an emergency department with data of intestinal obstruction. A simple tomography of the abdomen was performed, where a dilated colon and an image that resembles an inverted coffee bean were identified. An exploratory laparotomy was performed, identifying a bascule-type cecal volvulus, without vascular compromise. Devolvulation, decompression through appendectomy, and caecopexy were performed. After the surgical event, the patient recovered without incident and was discharged with adequate controls by external consultation.

CONCLUSIONS

Cecal volvulus is a cause of intestinal obstruction with a low incidence, which is why early recognition and treatment are key to avoiding the complications that its evolution entails. This type of disease should be among our differential diagnoses, since treatment is surgical and delay leads to a high mortality rate.

Midgut malrotation presenting with hyperemesis gravidarum: A case report

RATIONALE

Midgut malrotation is a rare congenital abnormality resulting from failure of complete intestinal rotation and subsequent fixation during early fetal development. There appeared to be no obvious symptoms in most patients, and a few patients may exhibit symptoms similar to hyperemesis gravidarum, such as nausea and vomiting. Here, we present a case of midgut malrotation presenting as hyperemesis gravidarum.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 27-year-old woman with an intrauterine pregnancy of 27 + 6 weeks complained of severe nausea and vomiting for 2 weeks.

DIAGNOSIS

Magnetic resonance imaging showed obvious dilatation in the proximal part of the duodenum and gastric cavity and the absence of a duodenal path dorsal to the superior mesenteric artery, which was diagnosed as midgut malrotation.

INTERVENTIONS

Considering that the patient's vital signs were stable, without manifestation of peritonitis or the risks of surgery to the fetus, conservative treatment was adopted. Unfortunately, the fetus developed severe hydrocephalus at 32 weeks. The patient and her family decided to abandon the fetus, and a mid-trimester-induced abortion was performed.

OUTCOMES

The related symptoms completely disappeared after delivery, and the relevant examination after discharge also confirmed the presence of midgut malrotation without gastrointestinal discomfort within 1 year after delivery.

LESSONS

Midgut malrotation can be considered as a differential diagnosis of hyperemesis gravidarum. Conservative treatment under close monitoring is desirable in pregnant women diagnosed with midgut malrotation.

Rare cecum pathologies as a cause of acute abdomen in children

BACKGROUND

We aimed to present cecum pathologies which are the cause of acute abdomen.

METHODS

Between January 2015 and June 2019, patients that were operated with the diagnosis of acute abdomen and patients with the primary cecum pathologies were evaluated retrospectively.

RESULTS

There were eight patients, five males and three females. The mean age was 7.2±2.9 years. Complaints were abdominal pain and vomiting in all patients. Physical examination was consistent with acute abdomen. In the imaging studies, the preliminary diagnosis was considered as two patients had acute appendicitis, two had invagination (one due to Meckel diverticulum and one with mesenteric cyst), two had ileus, one had perforated appendicitis, and one had cecum diverticulum. In surgery, five patients had cecum mass, one had cecum diverticulitis, one had cecum volvulus, and one had inflamed necrotic cecum. All patients underwent cecum resection and ileocolonic anastomosis. Histopathologic examination was resulted as Burkitt's lymphoma in three patients, cecum diverticulum in two, duplication of cecum in one, tuberculosis of cecum in one, and gangrenous necrosis due to volvulus in one patient. The mean follow-up period was 25 months (2 months-4 years). Follow-up was uneventful.

CONCLUSION

Primary cecum pathologies are very rare. This leads to lack of standardization in treatment planning. Considering the patients with malignancy in the series, ileocolonic anastomosis with cecum resection is an adequate and appropriate treatment option in children with primary cecum pathology.

Factors precipitating volvulus formation in sigmoid volvulus

BACKGROUND

Sigmoid volvulus (SV), the wrapping of the sigmoid colon around itself, is a rare intestinal obstruction form world-wide. For this reason, the physiopathology of SV, particularly the precipitating factors, are not clearly identified. The aim of this study is to evaluate the precipitating factors in SV.

METHODS

The clinical records of consecutive 416 patients with SV were reviewed prospectively from January 1986 to July 2020. As a control, the records of consecutive 100 patients with non-volvulus intestinal obstruction were reviewed prospectively in the past 24 months. The premorbid symptoms including acute diarrhea, sudden and excessive body motions, overeating after a prolonged starvation, coughing spell, and labor was evaluated.

RESULTS

Among the premorbid symptoms, 1-5-day interval of diarrhea (42 patients, 10.1%, p<0.05), harvesting activation (35 patients, 8.4%, p<0.05), and overeating after Ramadan fasting (31 patients, 7.5%, p<0.05) were found to be statistically significant precipitating factors in SV.

CONCLUSION

Although there are few studies about the precipitating factors of SV in the literature, increased bowel motility, excessive body motions, and overeating following a prolonged starvation look like the precipitating factors in the development of SV.

Malrotation With Midgut Volvulus in an Adolescent Male

ABSTRACT

Malrotation and midgut volvulus are conditions commonly described in infants, typically diagnosed within the first month of life. We present an unusual occurrence of high-grade obstruction because of malrotation and volvulus in an adolescent male. His symptoms at presentation, abdominal pain and vomiting, were similar to previous episodes in which he had been diagnosed with constipation or viral gastroenteritis and discharged home. His main criteria for admission for this occurrence were related to his degree of dehydration.

Caecum volvulus as a late presentation of intestinal malrotation in an adult: a challenging diagnosis

Intestinal malrotation is usually diagnosed in early childhood. It results from failure of the normal gut rotation during embryological development. We present a case of a 62-year-old woman with a delayed presentation of an intestinal malrotation. She was admitted in the emergency department with an acute intestinal obstruction. Exploratory laparotomy revealed Ladd's band with caecum volvulus and intestinal malrotation. Ladd's procedure and right hemicolectomy were performed with uneventful recovery. Since both caecum volvulus and intestinal malrotation are rare events, particularly in adulthood, clinical diagnosis is challenging. Our aim is to increase the awareness of surgeons about this rare association as a cause of acute intestinal obstruction.

Diagnosis and management of intestinal rotational abnormalities with or without volvulus in the pediatric population

Intestinal malrotation is a congenital anomaly that can be associated with midgut volvulus, requiring an emergent operation in order to maintain blood supply to the compromised intestine. It results from an abnormal rotation of the intestines, leading to three types of malrotation. Non-rotation is complete failure of the intestines to rotate, while the most common configuration is associated with the cecum in the mid-upper abdomen, close to a malpositioned duodenal-jejunal (DJ) flexure. This configuration has a narrow mesentery that has a high risk of volvulus. The final form of malrotation is incomplete rotation, where the DJ flexure and cecum are malpositioned, but the mesentery is not narrowed. The benefits of performing a Ladd's procedure for these individuals is controversial. Workup for malrotation should be considered in all patients who present with abdominal pain/distention and bilious emesis. An upper gastrointestinal contrast study is 93-100% sensitive and will show a corkscrew appearance when a volvulus is present. While the basic tenets of the Ladd's procedure have not changed and include detorsion of a volvulus, adhesiolysis of Ladd's bands and broadening of the mesentery, how this is accomplished and in whom are controversial. Laparoscopic Ladd's is associated with shorter hospital stays but also has a higher incidence of recurrent volvulus compared to an open approach. Patients with heterotaxy syndrome also represent a controversial group with some studies showing no difference in post-operative complications despite a higher mortality due to underlying cardiac disease, while other studies show a low incidence of volvulus and question the need for Ladd's in those who are asymptomatic. This review highlights the major aspects of diagnosing and treating malrotation, including the pathophysiology, workup, surgical options and areas of controversy.

Management of duodenal atresia associated with situs inversus abdominus: A case report

RATIONALE

Duodenal atresia in association with situs inversus abdominus is extremely rare. Care should be taken when selecting appropriate surgical methods, and caution should be exercised during the surgery to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment. With prompt recognition of the condition, the surgical procedure should be performed in a timely manner to achieve positive results.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A newborn affected by situs inversus abdominus associated with duodenal atresia, midgut malrotation, and volvulus.

DIAGNOSIS

Congenital duodenal atresia with situs inversus abdominis.

INTERVENTIONS

Diamond-shaped duodenoduodenostomy with appendectomy was performed, with the release of Ladd band and correction of the malrotation.

OUTCOMES

The baby boy is thriving well with no abdominal complaints at 4 years of surgical follow-up.

LESSONS

Although several theories are put forward to clarify this matter, the proper cause of duodenal atresia is not well defined. Clinical symptoms and examinations can assist diagnosis, the definitive cause should be ascertained by surgical approach. And the operating surgeon must be aware of the "mirror anatomy" to prevent unnecessary injuries. Additionally, long-term prognosis for duodenal atresia are very good, therefore, careful attention in postoperative management are important in such a case.

[Intestinal malrotation in adults diagnosed after presentation of post polypectomy syndrome in the cecum: report of a case]

Intestinal malrotation is a congenital anomaly of intestinal rotation and fixation, diagnosed infrequently in adulthood. We report the presence of intestinal malrotation in a previously asymptomatic adult patient with changes in bowel habit in the last 6 months after a colonoscopy is performed with evidence of a polyp in the cecum, after resection presenting acute abdominal pain in the left iliac fossa that allows imaging to confirm the diagnostic.

Primary Segmental Intestinal Volvulus in a Neonate

Primary segmental intestinal volvulus is a rare disease with an aggressive clinical course. Early diagnosis and prompt management prevents life-threatening necrosis and perforation. A 1-day-old newborn girl with this disorder is reported to emphasize the presentation, imaging findings and management.

Gastrointestinal motility should be emphasized after laparotomy treatment for complete small intestinal volvulus in older adults: A case report

RATIONALE

Complete small intestinal volvulus is a rare entity in adults, unlike partial intestinal volvulus. Although prompt surgical intervention is the mainstay of treatment, attention should also be paid to recovery of intestinal function postoperatively. Ignoring this issue during the postoperative recovery process can have serious consequences. We report the case of an 82-year-old woman with complete small intestinal volvulus at the root of the superior mesenteric vessel.

PATIENTS CONCERNS

The patient was admitted for acute onset (22 hours) of abdominal pain and distention. Nausea and vomiting also developed during this period.

DIAGNOSES

Abdominal physical examination was suspicious for peritoneal irritation. Computed tomography scan showed anticlockwise swirl of the mesenteric vessels at the lower margin of the pancreas with distension of the entire small intestine. A complete small intestinal volvulus was diagnosed.

INTERVENTIONS

Laparotomy and detorsion of the volvulus were performed after early diagnosis.

OUTCOMES

The patient developed intestinal wall edema because of ischemic-reperfusion damage. She exhibited severe abdominal distention and absent intestinal motility. Two days later, she went into septic shock; she died 19 days after surgical intervention.

LESSONS

Because complete small intestinal volvulus involves the entire intestine, ischemic-reperfusion intestinal damage after detorsion may be severe and can predict prognosis.

A huge completely isolated duplication cyst complicated by torsion and lined by 3 different mucosal epithelial components in an adult: A case report

RATIONALE

Intestinal or enteric duplication (ED) does exit as a rare congenital malformation of the gastrointestinal system clinically. It is a separate entity, but can be communicated with the gastrointestinal tract. It is characterized by a well-developed muscular wall and lumen endowed with ectopic mucosa, simulating a portion of normal bowel. A completely isolated duplication cyst (CIDC) refers to an extremely uncommon variant of ED, which is secluded from the alimentary tract and possesses its own exclusive blood supply. Surgical procedure is the treatment of choice, because most often, a definitive diagnosis can only be confirmed intraoperatively.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 20-year-old male patient presented with a 10-day history of intermittent episodes of abdominal pain. The pain evolved from dull into progressive and intolerable, accompanied by vomiting, nausea, and abdominal distention.

DIAGNOSES

Closed-loop small-bowel obstruction with volvulus.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient underwent an emergency exploratory laparotomy.

OUTCOMES

A huge CIDC was observed upon operation, which was affixed to the mesentery with only a narrow base, just like a pedicle; 720° counterclockwise twisting around its base was definitely noted, provoking the compromised blood supply. Complete excision of the cyst was performed along its base safely without violating the intestinal tract. Furthermore, the ectopic mucosa of the cyst exhibited 3 different epithelial lining components histopathologically.

LESSONS

Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of the existence of a duplication and raise a high index of suspicion in case of equivocal diagnosis, particularly in adult population. A low threshold for surgical management should be recommended in order to prevent lethal outcomes.

Primary small bowel mesentery de-differentiated liposarcoma causing torsion with no recurrence for 5 years: A case report and review of the literature

RATIONALE

Liposarcoma (LPS) is a rare malignant soft-tissue tumor. Management of LPS is relatively difficult, because there are no characteristic symptoms, or biomarkers, nor any established effective treatment. Hence, the report of the accumulation of each LPS case is necessary. We experienced an extremely rare case of torsion caused by a primary small bowel mesentery LPS.

PATIENT'S CONCERN

A 70-year-old male consulted our hospital with the complaints of abdominal pain and sudden vomiting.

DIAGNOSIS

No lump could be palpated, and tumor markers tested were within normal limits. However, computed tomography revealed an intestinal obstruction caused by torsion of the small bowel due to an LPS tumor.

INTERVENTIONS

After decompression of the intestinal obstruction by use of an ileus tube, surgical treatment was performed with rapidity.

OUTCOME

The torsion was found to be caused by the tumor that originated from the small bowel mesentery. The tumor was resected along with a portion of the small bowel. The growth of adipose tissues of various sizes and containing atypical cells was detected by histopathological examination. Also, immunohistochemical examination resulted in positive immuno-reactions for MDM2, CDK4, and p16INK4, which indicated the tumor to be a de-differentiated LPS. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 14 without any complications, and no recurrence of the tumor was observed at 5 years after the operation.

LESSONS

LPS should be considered in differential diagnosis of bowel torsion, and careful management is required because of the high possibility of recurrence. Patients should be followed carefully for at least 5 years, and further accumulation of data will be required in order to establish the appropriate management of LPS.

Comparative study of intestinal malrotation in infant, children, and adult in a tertiary care center in India

BACKGROUND

Intestinal malrotation (IM) is an uncommon condition and has varied presentation in different age groups. The study was aimed to evaluate differences in the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of IM in infants, children, and adults.

METHODS

Data were collected from records of 79 patients with IM. Based on the age of presentation, these patients were categorized into three age groups: infants (up to 1 year), children (1-18 years), and adults (> 18 years). Follow up data were analyzed during 8 to 16 year after corrective surgery.

RESULTS

The overall age of presentation ranged from 8 days to 60 years. Twenty-eight, 29, and 22 patients belonged to the infant, children, and adult groups, respectively. The classical presentation of IM (bilious vomiting) was significantly higher in the infant compared to the children and adult groups (100% vs. 62% vs. 9.8%; p < 0.001). All infants presented with acute symptoms. However, children and adults had subacute or chronic presentations, respectively. The incidence of volvulus was significantly higher in the infant group than other two groups, (100% vs. 41% vs. 10%; p < 0.001). Doppler ultrasound was highly accurate in infants (100%), whereas contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) abdomen was found to be most useful in adults. Postoperative complications were more common in adults.

CONCLUSION

Intestinal malrotation can present in patients of any age group. An increased awareness about the atypical presentations of this condition among adults may reduce the time to accurate diagnosis of this disease.

Short bowel syndrome caused by laparoscopic loop enterostomy of the jejunum in an adult with undiagnosed intestinal malrotation: A case report

RATIONALE

Failure to recognize intestinal malrotation in adults can cause complications during surgeries, especially those with a limited operative field. We report a case of short bowel syndrome caused by mistaken creation of a loop enterostomy in the jejunum due to undiagnosed intestinal malrotation.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 72-year-old man underwent a laparoscopic right hemicolectomy and ileocolostomy because of complicated diverticulitis. Six days after the surgery, he received laparoscopic exploration because of anastomotic leak, and a laparoscopic loop ileostomy was also performed as a protective diversion stoma. One month after surgery, he complained of severe diarrhea from the enterostomy after food and water intake. An upper gastrointestinal and small bowel series revealed that the duodenojejunal junction (DJJ) did not cross the midline and there was a short distance between the DJJ and the enterostomy in the right lower quadrant.

DIAGNOSES

Short bowel syndrome caused by mistaken creation of a loop enterostomy in the jejunum due to undiagnosed intestinal malrotation.

INTERVENTIONS

Total parental nutrition was used and the loop enterostomy was closed 3 months after the initial surgery.

OUTCOMES

The patient was discharged uneventfully 2 weeks after the loop enterostomy.

LESSONS

Intestinal malrotation in adults is often encountered during routine radiological examinations. However, it may cause complications during surgery if ignored. Radiologists should keep in mind that complications may occur if a complete presurgical evaluation of intestinal malrotation is not performed, and surgeons should take caution when performing surgeries, especially those with a limited operative field.

Worsening anemia associated with volvulus in a stable neonate with intestinal obstruction

Intrauterine intestinal obstruction complicated by midgut volvulus is a serious life-threatening diagnosis. Immediate surgical intervention is generally the course of action upon diagnosis to prevent morbidity and mortality. We report a case of intrauterine intestinal obstruction where the neonate then presented with an unusual onset of volvulus within the first 12 hours of life. The patient was born with generalized edema, a distended abdomen, and pallor. Unlike many cases, the patient did not present with typical signs of volvulus. Diagnostic imaging preceding delivery and the stable postnatal clinical course did not offer a justification for immediate laparotomy. Less than 24 hours later, the patient's hemoglobin significantly dropped leading to an emergent laparotomy. Findings included a volvulus of the terminal ileum and large amounts of intraluminal blood. Our case report includes an analysis of clinical observations that should be considered so that patients presenting with similar signs receive earlier surgical intervention.

The efficiency of sonography in diagnosing volvulus in neonates with suspected intestinal malrotation

This study is to prospectively evaluate the efficiency of sonography for volvulus diagnosis in neonates with clinically suspected intestinal malrotation.A total of 83 patients with suspected intestinal malrotation who underwent detailed abdominal sonography and upper gastrointestinal contrast study were included. Malrotation was characterized by inversion of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and superior mesenteric vein (SMV) in sonographic examination. The "whirlpool sign" of Color Doppler Sonography was recognized as a characteristic for malrotation with volvulus. The degrees of rotation of the SMV winding around SMA were also detected by sonography. Surgery was performed in patients with sonography diagnosed malrotation.A total of 39 patients were sonographically diagnosed as malrotation which was subsequently confirmed by surgery. The sensitivity and positive predictive value of the sonographic diagnosis were both 100% (39/39). The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of "whirlpool sign" for the detection of midgut volvulus were 95.2% (20/21), 88.9% (16/18), and 92.3% (36/39), respectively. Greater degrees of rotation (equal or greater than 720°) showed higher risk (odds ratio, 5.0; P < .01) for intestinal necrosis occurrence.Sonography is more accurate in diagnosing suspected malrotation than upper gastrointestinal contrast study. Specific sonographic "whirlpool sign" related to volvulus may be used as a potential indicator for intestinal necrosis. In addition, sonography can exclude malrotation and may help the diagnosis of other diseases, such as annular pancreas and duodenal atresia.