Related Experiment Videos
Small bowel volvulus among adults
Jen-Chieh Huang1, Jeng-Shiann Shin, Yue-Ting Huang
1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Cheng-Ching General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan. guthuang@yahoo.com.tw
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology
|December 13, 2005
Summary
Small bowel volvulus is rare in adults but can cause intestinal obstruction. Early surgical intervention is crucial to prevent complications and reduce the 11% mortality rate.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Small bowel volvulus is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction in adults.
- Clinical experience with this condition is limited due to its rarity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of adult patients with small bowel volvulus.
- To identify factors associated with morbidity and mortality in these patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 19 adult patients diagnosed with small bowel volvulus between 1993 and 2003.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical signs and symptoms, radiological findings, surgical treatment, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- The mean age of patients was 61.3 years. Primary volvulus occurred in 9 patients, and secondary volvulus in 10 (associated with pregnancy, tumors, diverticula, adhesions).
- Most cases involved the jejunum. Two patients with gangrene died, resulting in an overall mortality rate of 11%.
Conclusions:
- Small bowel volvulus should be considered in adult patients presenting with intestinal obstruction.
- Prompt surgical intervention is essential to prevent vascular compromise and improve outcomes.