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Small bowel volvulus complicating intestinal ascariasis in children
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, University of Natal, Medical School, Durban, South Africa.
The British Journal of Surgery
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Small bowel volvulus complicating ascariasis presents varied symptoms. Early diagnosis and prompt resuscitation are crucial to reduce the 17% mortality rate associated with this intestinal obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Parasitology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Intestinal ascariasis, a common helminthic infection, can lead to severe complications.
- Small bowel volvulus is a rare but life-threatening condition that can be precipitated by ascariasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on a series of patients with small bowel volvulus secondary to intestinal ascariasis.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and management strategies for this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 29 patients diagnosed with small bowel volvulus and ascariasis.
- Analysis of clinical presentations, radiological findings, treatment approaches, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Small bowel volvulus occurred in 29 patients with intestinal ascariasis.
- Mortality rate was 17%, primarily due to delayed diagnosis and inadequate pre-operative resuscitation.
- Varied clinical and radiological presentations were observed.
- Intra-operative instillation of vermifuge reduced postoperative worm migration.
Conclusions:
- Early diagnosis of small bowel volvulus in ascariasis requires high clinical suspicion and serial radiological assessment.
- Prompt surgical intervention and resuscitation are vital for improving patient outcomes.
- Intra-operative vermifuge administration is effective in preventing postoperative complications.