[Primary torsion of the omentum majus]

Primary torsion of the omentum majus is a rare condition. The clinical picture can mimic other causes of acute abdominal pain. The condition is therefore often not recognised and the diagnosis is made only perioperatively.

A 32-year-old man visited the emergency department with acute abdominal pain. During surgery, the pain turned out to be caused by an ischaemic segment of the omentum majus, resulting in torsion. In retrospect, the patient had been suffering from recurrent attacks of similar abdominal pain for years without a satisfactory diagnosis.

In any patient with episodes of recurrent, localised, stabbing abdominal pain, possibly related to exercise and without any other clear diagnosis, the diagnosis 'torsion of the omentum majus' should be considered.