A twist in the tale

Rishi Malhotra1, Rejoo Daniel, Sanja Besarovic

  • 1Hull Royal Infirmary, Hull, Yorkshire, UK.

BMJ Case Reports
|October 29, 2013
PubMed

Insights

A pediatric gastric volvulus, initially misdiagnosed as gastroenteritis, required surgical intervention including laparotomy and gastropexy. This case highlights the critical need for prompt diagnosis and management of this rare condition in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Gastric volvulus is a rare condition where the stomach twists on itself.
  • It can present with non-specific symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Observation:

  • A 4-year-old girl presented with symptoms mimicking gastroenteritis, including retching and abdominal colic.
  • Progressive pain and epigastric distension prompted further investigation.

Findings:

  • Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed gastric volvulus.
  • Urgent laparotomy was performed to decompress the stomach and repair a lesser curvature perforation.
  • Complications included sepsis and reperforation, necessitating a second laparotomy with gastropexy.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering gastric volvulus in pediatric patients with persistent abdominal symptoms.
  • Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for managing gastric volvulus and its complications.
  • Long-term jejunal feeding may be required, emphasizing the severity and recovery challenges.

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