Intestinal malrotation--volvulus: imaging findings.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Radiology
• Gastrointestinal Radiology

Background:

• Intestinal malrotation can cause life-threatening midgut volvulus.
• Accurate diagnosis requires recognizing specific imaging signs and normal variants.
• Radiologists play a key role in identifying malrotation and preventing complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key imaging signs of intestinal malrotation.
• To emphasize the role of ultrasonography in diagnosing midgut volvulus.
• To highlight the importance of distinguishing malrotation from normal variants.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging findings for intestinal malrotation.
• Discussion of ultrasonography, CT, MRI, and upper GI series.
• Focus on the location of the duodenojejunal flexure.

Main Results:

• The location of the third duodenal portion outside the retroperitoneum is a reliable sign on ultrasonography, CT, or MRI.
• Upper gastrointestinal series is the gold standard for confirming abnormal duodenojejunal flexure location.
• Ultrasonography is emphasized for diagnosing midgut volvulus.

Conclusions:

• Radiologists must be proficient in diagnosing intestinal malrotation.
• Early recognition of imaging signs is vital for preventing severe complications like midgut volvulus.
• A combination of imaging modalities and clinical suspicion ensures accurate diagnosis.