Entirely Right-Sided Colon: A Case Report

Intestinal malrotation is a rare congenital anomaly occurring in approximately 0.2% of live births that can lead to severe complications, including midgut volvulus, short bowel syndrome, and death. This study presents a unique case of an entirely right-sided colon with associated variations in vascular structures. Possible etiologies for this anatomical anomaly are discussed, along with its clinical implications. A detailed cadaveric dissection was performed on a donor patient at Western University of Health Sciences. The most interesting finding was that the entire colon was on the right side of the abdominal cavity, while the small intestine was on the left. The transverse colon was unusually short and constricted. The greater omentum lacked attachment to the transverse colon. The descending and sigmoid colon were supplied by the superior mesenteric artery instead of the inferior mesenteric artery. An abnormal artery branching from the inferior mesenteric artery supplied an intraperitoneal mass with the appearance of fatty tissue. Intestinal malrotation is frequently misdiagnosed, partly because patients tend to present with nonspecific abdominal symptoms. Although this patient's exact medical history is unknown, the family reported generalized gastrointestinal issues, which could be accounted for by the intestinal configuration observed. This unusual case highlights the importance of studies on the prevalence, variations, and clinical consequences of malrotation to improve diagnostic and management strategies.