Related Experiment Videos
Chronic gastric volvulus: is it so rare?
A Bautista-Casasnovas1, R Varela-Cives, J M Fernandez-Bustillo
1Servicio de Cirugía Pediátrica, Departamento de Pediatría, Hospital Clínico de Santiago, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain. pdbautis@usc.es
Summary
Gastric volvulus is more common in infants than previously thought, often presenting with digestive issues. Early diagnosis through radiography and appropriate treatment, including conservative or surgical methods, leads to good outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Gastric volvulus is traditionally considered rare in children.
- Standard pediatric texts offer limited information on this condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency of chronic gastric volvulus in infants.
- To discuss the diagnosis and treatment of gastric volvulus in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 52 children treated for chronic gastric volvulus since 1976.
- Diagnosis confirmed via upper intestinal transit studies.
- Radiological signs analyzed, including high greater curvature and esophageal crossing.
Main Results:
- 52 term infants (mean age 2.8 months) diagnosed with gastric volvulus.
- Common symptoms included crying, colic, and vomiting.
- Upper intestinal transit studies confirmed diagnosis; key radiological signs noted.
- 20 surgical interventions performed, with good recovery.
Conclusions:
- Chronic gastric volvulus may be underdiagnosed in infants presenting with various digestive and respiratory symptoms.
- Careful radiographic evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment, whether conservative or surgical, are essential for favorable outcomes.