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Updated: May 6, 2026

Magnetic Tweezers for the Measurement of Twist and Torque
Published on: May 19, 2014
A twist in the tale
Rishi Malhotra1, Rejoo Daniel, Sanja Besarovic
1Hull Royal Infirmary, Hull, Yorkshire, UK.
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.
Abstract:
A 4-year-old girl presented with retching and abdominal colic and was initially diagnosed with gastroenteritis. However, progressive pain and epigastric distension led to a surgical review and she was discovered on CT scanning to have a gastric volvulus. She required urgent laparotomy to decompress the stomach and repair a perforation on the lesser curvature. Her recovery was complicated by sepsis and reperforation necessitating further laparotomy, at which time she also underwent gastropexy. The patient required long-term jejunal feeding in the hospital and at home before finally returning to normal diet and activity.
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