Long-axis rotational volvulus in a W ileoanal pouch: an unusual but potentially preventable problem. Report of a case

This study was designed to report long-axis rotational volvulus, an unusual long-term complication of restorative proctocolectomy.

A MEDLINE search using the keywords, pouch volvulus, pouch complications, ileoanal pouch volvulus, restorative proctocolectomy volvulus, restorative proctocolectomy complications, W-pouch, and early and late complications, was performed and yielded no previous reports.

We describe pouch gangrene secondary to volvulus in a W-pouch four years after restorative proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis. Early recognition by clinical features, pouchoscopy, and soluble contrast studies are crucial if pouch salvage by pouchpexy is to be successful.

Acute necrosis of the ileoanal pouch caused by long-axis rotational volvulus is an important, but uncommon, cause of life-threatening acute abdomen after restorative proctocolectomy. Prophylactic pouchpexy at the time of pouch construction or salvage pouchpexy after early diagnosis of the at-risk pouch are important considerations to avoid loss of the pouch.