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Midgut volvulus in an adult with congenital malrotation

Sheng-Der Hsu1, Jyh-Cherng Yu, Shao-Jiun Chou

  • 1Division of General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, 325, Cheng-Kung Rd., Section 2, Taipei 114, Taiwan, Republic of China.

American Journal of Surgery
|March 21, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Congenital midgut malrotation is rare in adults but can cause bowel obstruction. This case highlights diagnosing midgut volvulus in an adult with this anomaly.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology and Hepatology
  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Abdominal Imaging

Background:

  • Congenital midgut malrotation is a rare anomaly typically diagnosed in infants.
  • It can lead to serious complications like duodenal or small-bowel obstruction.
  • Symptoms usually manifest within the first year of life.

Observation:

  • This report details a rare case of congenital midgut malrotation diagnosed in an adult.
  • The adult patient presented with symptoms suggestive of partial intestinal obstruction.
  • Diagnostic modalities included barium studies, CT, angiography, and laparotomy.

Findings:

  • Midgut volvulus and partial intestinal obstruction were diagnosed in the adult patient.
  • Congenital midgut malrotation is an uncommon cause of adult intestinal obstruction.
  • Chronic, vague abdominal pain can mask this diagnosis in adults.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering congenital midgut malrotation in adult patients with unexplained abdominal pain or obstruction.
  • Advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques are crucial for identifying rare adult presentations.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention are vital to prevent complications such as intestinal ischemia.

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