Malrotation of the midgut: a rare complication in an adult patient
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Updated: Oct 2, 2026

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Published on: August 11, 2023
E I Konings-Beetstra1, E J van der Jagt
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands.
Insights
Congenital midgut anomalies, rare in adults, can cause duodenal compression due to malrotation. This case highlights adult presentation and diagnostic approaches for this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Congenital anomalies of the midgut typically manifest within the first month of life.
- Late-onset complications from these anomalies are uncommon but can occur.
Observation:
- A case of an adult patient presenting with extrinsic duodenal compression is described.
- The cause of compression was identified as intestinal malrotation, a congenital anomaly.
Findings:
- The study reviews the embryology of midgut malrotation and its implications in adulthood.
- Symptoms, potential complications, and diagnostic imaging findings in adult patients are discussed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering congenital midgut anomalies in adult patients with unexplained gastrointestinal issues.
- Radiological diagnosis plays a crucial role in identifying extrinsic duodenal compression due to malrotation in adults.
Abstract:
Complications caused by a congenital anomaly of the midgut usually occur in the first 4 weeks of life; later such complications are rare. We present an adult patient with extrinsic duodenal compression caused by malrotation. The embryology, symptoms and complications in the adult and the radiological diagnosis are discussed. The literature on this subject is reviewed.
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