Volvulus (twisted intestine)

About Volvulus (twisted intestine)

An abnormal twisting of the intestines. The disorder can occur because of a congenital abnormality (mal-rotation of intestine) and usually presents early in life. When it occurs in adults, it more commonly involves the large intestine (colon). Regardless of the cause, the volvulus can cause obstruction of the flow of material through the bowel, variable loss of blood supply, and possible death of the colon. If untreated the disorder can be life threatening.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain and tenderness, nausea, vomiting, vomiting of fecal smelling material, bloody or dark red stool, distended abdomen.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests will be done to establish the diagnosis. A CT scan is the most common test to confirm the volvulus.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Lipase, Urinalysis (UA), X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Emergency surgery is needed to untwist the bowel and restore blood supply. If the volvulus has been present long enough to cause tissue death, the affected intestine will need to be removed. Many patients are dehydrated requiring intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement.

Medical specialties

General Surgery · Pediatric Surgery

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Volvulus (twisted intestine).