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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
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Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
Published on: July 21, 2023
Mesenteric vascular occlusion and varices complicating midgut malrotation
Gastroenterology
|September 1, 1979
Summary
Midgut malrotation and volvulus can cause rare complications like superior mesenteric artery and vein obstruction, leading to gastrointestinal bleeding from bowel varices in children. This diagnosis should be considered in pediatric cases of bleeding or malabsorption.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Surgical Pediatrics
Background:
- Midgut malrotation and volvulus are congenital anomalies that can lead to significant gastrointestinal complications.
- Vascular compromise of the midgut is a known, though infrequent, complication of these anomalies.
Observation:
- A pediatric case presented with long-standing complete obstruction of the superior mesenteric artery and vein.
- The patient experienced recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding attributed to the development of varices within the bowel.
Findings:
- The observed vascular obstruction and subsequent variceal bleeding were direct complications of the underlying midgut malrotation and volvulus.
- This specific presentation highlights an unusual but critical manifestation of this congenital condition.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider midgut malrotation and volvulus in the differential diagnosis for pediatric patients with unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Evaluation for malrotation is crucial when small bowel biopsy is considered for diagnosing diarrhea or malabsorption in affected children.
- Early recognition and management are vital to prevent severe complications associated with mesenteric vascular compromise.
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