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Gastric volvulus. More common than previously thought?
Postgraduate Medicine
|October 1, 1986
Summary
Gastric volvulus, or stomach torsion, may be more common than previously thought, especially intermittent cases. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are key for acute gastric volvulus, while chronic forms often require surgery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gastric volvulus involves stomach torsion, potentially obstructing gastric orifices.
- It can manifest as acute or chronic, intermittent symptoms.
Observation:
- Partial or intermittent gastric volvulus might be underdiagnosed.
- Suspect in patients with retching/vomiting and paraesophageal hiatus hernia or diaphragmatic eventration.
Findings:
- The classic triad for acute gastric volvulus includes retching, severe epigastric pain, and difficulty with nasogastric tube insertion.
- Upper gastrointestinal series confirm the diagnosis.
Implications:
- Acute gastric volvulus is a surgical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- Recurrent chronic gastric volvulus typically necessitates surgical treatment for definitive management.