Definition
Definition
A volvulus occurs when part of the large intestine is twisted on itself and the mesentery. The mesentery is a supportive tissue that anchors the intestines to the back wall of the abdomen. The twisted intestine creates a bowel obstruction that cuts off the blood supply and affects bowel function.
A volvulus requires immediate medical attention.
Causes
Causes
It is not known what causes the twisting to happen. Rarely, this may lead to bowel obstruction.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Factors that increase your child’s chance of volvulus include:
- Congenital defects including:
- Elongated or enlarged colon
- Congenital intestinal malrotation
- Sigmoid colon unattached to abdominal wall
- Narrow mesenteric connection to the colon
- Irregular bowel habits
- Chronic constipation
- High fiber diet
- Previous volvulus
- Hirschsprung disease
Symptoms
Symptoms
In some cases, your child may not have symptoms. In those that have them, symptoms may include:
- Green or yellow vomit
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Rapid breathing and heart rate
- Bloody stools
- Dehydration
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Your child’s doctor will ask you about symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your child’s doctor may recommend:
- Blood tests for electrolytes
- Hematest to check for hidden blood in the stool
Imaging tests will be needed to see your child’s internal structures. Tests include:
- Abdominal x-ray
- Abdominal ultrasound
- Lower GI series with barium enema
- Upper GI series with barium swallow
Treatment
Treatment
The treatment goal is to unblock the obstruction and restore bowel function. Treatment may include:
Hydration
IV fluids may be given to prevent dehydration and shock. Your child may need a nasogastric tube to help prevent the build-up of gas in the stomach. A nasogastric tube is a tube inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach.
Medications
Your child’s doctor may recommend antibiotics if an infection is present or possible. It is important for your child to take all of the antibiotics as recommended, even when feeling well.
Surgery
Your child’s doctor will untwist the intestine and assess for any damage. In most cases, untwisting the intestine helps restore blood flow and bowel function.
If needed, the section of intestine that is damaged is removed. The two remaining healthy ends are put together with stitches or staples. This procedure may reduce the chance of another volvulus.
Prevention
Prevention
There are no current guidelines to prevent volvulus.
RESOURCES:
American Gastroenterological Society http://www.gastro.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Paediatric Society http://cps.ca
References:
http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/anatomiccolon/index.aspx
Updated December 28, 2012. Accessed June 14, 2013.
Intestinal malrotation and volvulus. Cincinnati Children’s Hospital website. Available at:
http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/i/intestinal-malrotation
Updated August 2010. Accessed June 14, 2013.
Intestinal obstruction and volvulus. PEMSoft at EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php
Accessed June 14, 2013.
Lal SK, Morgenstern R, et al. Sigmoid volvulus an update. Gastrointest Endosc Clin N Am. 2006;16(1):175-87.
Osiro SB, Cunningham D, et al. The twisted colon: a review of sigmoid volvulus. Am Surg. 2012;78(3):271-9.
Sigmoid volvulus. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/what.php
Updated June 21, 2010. Accessed June 14, 2013.
Williams H. Green for danger! Intestinal malrotation and volvulus. Arch Dis Child Educ Prac Ed. 2007;92(3):ep87-ep91.
Last Updated: 1/13/2014