[Volvulus of the sigmoid colon]

Sigmoid colon is the most frequent side for a volvulus. We present four cases of sigmoid volvulus admitted to our department during the period July 1994-December 1995. Intestinal volvulus, despite its benignity, has a quite high morbidity and mortality. Important factors such as the patient's features and frequent late diagnosis can influence the complicated outcome of the disease. Plane X-ray of the abdomen is helpful while barium enema can be therapeutical because of the pressure of the inflated air. Sigmoid resection is the most effective treatment for the disease.