Management of sigmoid volvulus based on Ladd's procedure: a case report

Sigmoid volvulus is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition in childhood. Colectomy is usually required to prevent recurrent volvulus, which carries a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Here, we report a non-resection method based on the concept of Ladd's procedure to treat a sigmoid volvulus in a 15-year-old boy. After reduction of the volvulus, the distance between the sigmoid-rectal junction and the sigmoid-descending colon junction was widened by dissecting the meso-sigmoid colon along the course of the long axis. No colon resection was performed. The total operation time was less than an hour. The post-operative recovery was uneventful. There was no recurrent volvulus during a follow-up of 1 year. Widening the base of the mesosigmoid according to the concept of Ladd's procedure may be considered as a more simple and safe alternative treatment to prevent recurrent sigmoid volvulus in children.