Waugh's Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review of Intussusception and Malrotation
Mário Rui Correia1, Ana Isabel Barros1, Jorge Cagigal1
1Serviço de Cirurgia Pediátrica, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte Albino Aroso, Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Unidade Local de Saúde de Santo António, Porto, Portugal.
Abstract:
Waugh's syndrome, the rare coexistence of intussusception and intestinal malrotation, has rarely been reported in literature, with fewer than 100 cases described globally. Its diagnosis is challenging due to non-specific symptoms of both conditions and the frequent success of non-operative reduction of intussusception, which often results in underdiagnosis of malrotation. We present a case of a 6-month-old boy who developed recurrent vomiting, feeding intolerance, and failure to thrive. Ultrasound imaging revealed ileocolic intussusception and a mobile cecum. Laparoscopy confirmed malrotation, and the patient underwent manual reduction of intussusception, followed by Ladd procedure. The child had an uneventful postoperative recovery without complications. Early diagnosis of Waugh's syndrome requires a high index of suspicion, particularly in recurrent obstructive symptoms where malrotation may be present. Enhanced imaging techniques can facilitate prompt diagnosis and guide appropriate surgical intervention, preventing complications. Clinicians should maintain a high degree of suspicion for Waugh's syndrome to ensure timely and effective intervention.
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