Volvulus of the transverse colon in children
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Updated: Oct 21, 2026

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults
Published on: February 28, 2025
S Houshian1, J S Sørensen, K E Jensen
1Department of Surgery, Esbjerg County Hospital, Denmark.
Insights
Transverse colon volvulus is rare in children. This case report details a 9-year-old girl
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Transverse colon volvulus is an exceptionally rare condition in pediatric patients.
- Literature review highlights the rarity and diagnostic challenges of this condition in children.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old girl presented with recurrent transverse colon volvulus.
- Initial management involved operative detorsion, followed by a similar episode months later.
Findings:
- Successful colonoscopic detorsion was performed during the second episode.
- Subsequent elective resection of the transverse colon with primary anastomosis led to an uneventful recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for considering transverse colon volvulus in pediatric patients with recurrent abdominal symptoms.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention, including potential resection, are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Further discussion on pathogenesis and management strategies is warranted for this rare pediatric surgical emergency.
Abstract:
Volvulus of the transverse colon is extremely rare in children. A case report of this unusual condition in a 9-year-old girl is presented together with a review of the literature. The transverse colon volvulus was managed operatively by detorsion. Four and half months later, she had a similar attack. Colonoscopic detorsion was performed with elective resection of the transverse colon and primary anastomosis. Recovery was uneventful. Possible factors of pathogenesis are discussed, and an outline of diagnostic and therapeutic measures are included.
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