[Positional anomalies of the intestine in adults]

Anomalous intestine positions arise during embryologic development. They are rare in adults and cause uncharacteristic but chronic discomforts. They can produce life-threatening complications at any time. They are thought of too rarely, and radiologically shown anomalies are easily misinterpreted. Frequently they are discovered only during operation. The 178 anomalous intestine positions are here analyzed partly newly named and discussed to facilitate detection, to prevent complications, and to make rational treatment possible. There are 24 different typical forms, which are explained by disturbances of the embryologic rotation, growth, or fixation of the intestine.