A siphon-like retrogastric transverse colon: A case report

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Anatomy
• Abdominal Surgery

Background:

• Intestinal interposition describes rare colonic anatomic variations where the colon attaches between two organs.
• Most colonic interpositions are asymptomatic and incidentally found via imaging.
• This case details a symptomatic retrogastric colon causing a kink between the stomach and pancreas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of symptomatic retrogastric colon (intestinal interposition).
• To highlight diagnostic challenges and successful surgical management of this rare condition.

Main Methods:

• A 66-year-old female with a history of bowel issues, epigastric pain, nausea, and weight loss was evaluated.
• Diagnosis of retrogastric colon was confirmed via colonoscopy and cross-sectional imaging.
• Surgical treatment involved adhesiolysis and mobilization of the transverse colon.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with symptoms mimicking other gastrointestinal disorders.
• Intraoperative findings confirmed a kinked transverse colon protruding into the lesser sac, adhered to the stomach and pancreas.
• Post-surgery, the patient experienced complete symptom resolution, weight regain, and no recurrence at six months.

Conclusions:

• Symptomatic intestinal interpositions, like retrogastric colon, can present with misleading symptoms, complicating diagnosis.
• Surgical treatment is effective for symptomatic cases, leading to favorable outcomes.