Sigmoid volvulus and ileosigmoid knotting in children

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Published on: October 29, 2014

L B Chirdan1, E A Ameh

  • 1Paediatric Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria, P.M.B. 2076 Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.

Pediatric Surgery International
|December 1, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) and ileosigmoid knotting (ISK) are rare causes of acute intestinal obstruction in children. Prompt surgical intervention and resuscitation offer a good prognosis for these uncommon pediatric conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastrointestinal Surgery
  • Abdominal Emergencies

Background:

  • Acute intestinal obstruction in children is uncommon.
  • Sigmoid volvulus (SV) and ileosigmoid knotting (ISK) are rare causes of obstruction.
  • These conditions often present with non-specific symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report on six pediatric cases of acute intestinal obstruction due to SV and ISK.
  • To describe the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes.
  • To highlight the rarity and diagnostic challenges of these conditions in children.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective case series of six children.
  • Diagnosis confirmed intraoperatively via laparotomy.
  • Treatment involved surgical resection with colostomy or derotation.

Main Results:

  • Median age at presentation was 4.5 years.
  • Common symptoms included abdominal pain, distention, vomiting, and constipation.
  • Two patients with ISK experienced bowel gangrene; one SV patient died from infection.
  • No recurrences were observed.

Conclusions:

  • SV and ISK are rare pediatric emergencies.
  • Diagnosis often requires exploratory laparotomy due to lack of specific signs.
  • Aggressive resuscitation and timely surgery are crucial for favorable outcomes.

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