Volvulus of the transverse colon

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Volvulus, a twisting of the intestine, is a rare cause of bowel obstruction.
• Transverse colon volvulus is particularly uncommon, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on a series of transverse colon volvulus cases.
• To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and surgical management.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of seven cases of transverse colon volvulus.
• Analysis of surgical procedures and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

• Six of the seven cases presented as acute volvulus.
• Early diagnosis and surgical management were associated with successful outcomes.
• Extended right hemicolectomy or end colostomy with distal mucous fistula were preferred surgical options.
• Non-resection approaches were linked to a higher recurrence rate in three patients.

Conclusions:

• Transverse colon volvulus requires prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention.
• Surgical procedures like extended right hemicolectomy or colostomy are effective.
• Resection is recommended to prevent recurrence.