Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 26, 2026

Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
Sigmoid volvulus in children and adolescents
1Department of Radiology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555, USA.
Insights
Sigmoid volvulus is a rare but serious condition in children. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better outcomes, especially considering associated conditions like Hirschsprung's disease.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Sigmoid volvulus is a rare, life-threatening condition in children.
- This study reviews 63 pediatric cases since 1940.
Observation:
- Median age was 7 years, with a 3.5:1 male to female ratio.
- Abdominal pain was the primary symptom, with acute and recurrent presentations.
- Barium enema was diagnostic, and reduction was successful in 77% of attempts.
Findings:
- Operative treatment was common, with sigmoidectomy being the most frequent procedure.
- Overall mortality was 6%, with higher rates in neonates (14%).
- Hirschsprung's disease was noted in 11% of cases.
Implications:
- Sigmoid volvulus should be considered in pediatric differential diagnoses for colonic distention.
- An effective treatment algorithm is proposed for this rare pediatric condition.
Background:
Sigmoid volvulus is an exceptionally rare and potentially life-threatening condition in the pediatric age group.
Study Design:
We report our experience with three children treated for sigmoid volvulus and review the cases reported in the medical literature since 1940.
Results:
Since 1940, 63 cases of sigmoid volvulus in children (including this series) have been reported. The median age was 7 years and the male to female ratio was 3.5:1. Two distinct presentations (acute and recurrent) were identified. Abdominal symptoms dominated the clinical picture. Barium enemas either confirmed or were highly suggestive of sigmoid volvulus. Reduction by barium enema was successful in 77% (10 of 13) of the attempts. Forty-nine patients underwent operative treatment, with sigmoidectomy (with or without primary anastomosis) being the most common. The overall mortality rate was 6%, operative mortality was 8.1%, and neonatal mortality was 14%. Associated conditions were frequent. Particular emphasis should be placed on ruling out Hirschsprung's disease (present in 11 of 63 patients).
Conclusions:
Sigmoid volvulus remains a rare occurrence in children, but it should be included in the differential diagnosis of pain in children when colonic distention is present. An algorithm for treatment is proposed.
Related Concept Videos
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol...
Pyloric Obstruction
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Diverticular Disease of the Colon

