Volvulus of the sigmoid colon

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Gastroenterology
• Colorectal Surgery

Background:

• Colonic volvulus is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction.
• Sigmoid volvulus is the most common subtype.
• Management strategies vary based on patient condition and disease severity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the management and outcomes of colonic volvulus.
• To evaluate the efficacy of palliative procedures versus Hartmann operations.
• To identify factors influencing treatment success and recurrence.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 18 patients with colonic volvulus treated between 1983 and 1986.
• Analysis of patient demographics, surgical procedures, recurrence rates, and mortality.
• Comparison of outcomes between palliative and operative interventions.

Main Results:

• The majority of cases (94.4%) involved sigmoid volvulus.
• Palliative procedures were performed in 66.6% of patients, with a 30% recurrence rate.
• Hartmann operations were performed in 22.2%, showing success in cases with bowel necrosis.
• Overall mortality rate for colonic volvulus was 16.8%.

Conclusions:

• Palliative procedures are effective for colonic volvulus in stable patients without bowel necrosis.
• Hartmann operation is a suitable option for patients with bowel necrosis.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for improving outcomes in colonic volvulus.