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Volvulus of the sigmoid colon in a child
Ghassan Al-Kouder1, Akhtar Nawaz, Cirus Gerami
1Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Insights
Sigmoid volvulus is rare in children, but this case highlights its occurrence in a 10-year-old with neurological and muscular conditions. The study reviews predisposing factors for pediatric sigmoid volvulus.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Sigmoid volvulus, a common cause of large bowel obstruction in the elderly, is infrequently encountered in pediatric populations.
- Understanding pediatric sigmoid volvulus is crucial due to its rarity and potential for severe complications.
Observation:
- A case of sigmoid volvulus is presented in a 10-year-old child.
- The child had co-existing conditions of mental retardation and myopathy, which may be predisposing factors.
Findings:
- This case underscores that sigmoid volvulus can occur in children, even those with underlying neurological and neuromuscular disorders.
- Discussion of predisposing factors specific to pediatric sigmoid volvulus is included.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for considering sigmoid volvulus in the differential diagnosis of bowel obstruction in children, particularly those with specific comorbidities.
- Contributes to the limited literature on pediatric sigmoid volvulus, aiding future diagnosis and management strategies.
Abstract:
Sigmoid volvulus although a common cause of large bowel obstruction in the elderly, is considered rare in the pediatric age group. We report a case of sigmoid volvulus in a 10-year-old child with mental retardation and myopathy. The various predisposing factors for sigmoid volvulus in children are discussed, and the literature on the subject is also reviewed.
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