Cecal volvulus in pregnancy

Cecal volvulus in pregnancy is an uncommon complication. A case is reported of a 28-year-old white female, gravida 2, para 1, who presented at 36 weeks' gestation with flu-like symptoms accompanied by regular uterine contractions every 3 minutes; she underwent repeat cesarean section without incident. The patient did well until the second postoperative day, when she developed obstructive bowel symptoms and underwent emergency laparotomy. Operative findings revealed cecal volvulus with partial malrotation of the small bowel, absence of the ligament of Treitz, agenesis of the left kidney, and a redundant sigmoid colon. Medical and surgical management of this case, as well as a general description of the symptoms of cecal volvulus, is discussed. Early diagnosis and operation are essential to avoid the high morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.