Sigmoid volvulus: new thoughts on the epidemiology

Synchronous sigmoid-cecal volvulus: a rare case of large-bowel obstruction-a case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Large bowel obstruction caused by volvulus poses a life-threatening risk without immediate intervention. Sigmoid colon volvulus is predominant (43-75%), followed by cecal volvulus 10-52%). Synchronous double colonic volvulus is extremely rare, with limited documented cases in academic literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of synchronous volvulus involving the sigmoid colon and cecum in a 45-year-old male of the Toro tribe from Fort Portal city in western Uganda who presented with acute abdominal pain, distension, and complete constipation for 2 days, accompanied by five episodes of non-bloody feculent vomiting and anorexia.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Upon admission, the patient presented with stable vital signs and a mildly tender, tympanic, distended abdomen with absent bowel sounds. Plain radiographs revealed the characteristic "coffee bean" sign, indicative of sigmoid volvulus. Following optimization, laparotomy confirmed synchronous volvulus involving both the sigmoid and cecum. Subsequently, a total colectomy with end ileostomy was performed, after which the patient experienced an uneventful recovery.

CONCLUSION

Synchronous double colonic volvulus, a rare condition, is frequently overlooked clinically. Timely recognition and intervention are crucial to address diagnostic challenges and prevent potentially fatal outcomes.

Endoscopic detorsion of sigmoid volvulus in a young female: a case report

BACKGROUND

A volvulus refers to the torsion or rotational twisting of a portion of the gastrointestinal tract, with a predilection for impacting the caecum and sigmoid colon, often resulting in the development of bowel obstruction. The risk factors associated are old age, chronic fecal impaction, psychiatric disorders, colonic dysmotility, prior abdominal surgical procedures, diabetes, and Hirschsprung's disease. Elderly are most commonly affected with sigmoid volvulus but there are few cases among young adults that culminate in grave complications. Although it is rare, but young individuals presenting with acute abdomen secondary to sigmoid volvulus need urgent attention. To prevent more invasive surgical procedures, endoscopic detorsion is preferred nowadays with complete recovery of patients. We present a case of young female who was successfully managed with endoscopic detorsion.

CASE PRESENTATION

27 years old Asian Pakistani female presented with worsening abdominal distention, constipation and vomiting since 2 days. On examination she was afebrile, vitally stable. Abdomen was distended, tympanic percussion with generalized tenderness. Abdominal radiograph was obtained which showed dilated bowel loops followed by Computed tomography of abdomen which was suggestive of Sigmoid volvulus causing intestinal obstruction. Patient was immediately moved to endoscopy unit and endoscopic detorsion of volvulus was done. For individuals who present with sigmoid volvulus and do not exhibit signs of peritonitis or colonic gangrene, the recommended course of action involves acute endoscopic detorsion, followed by scheduled surgical intervention.

CONCLUSION

This case report emphasizes the significance of clinicians considering sigmoid volvulus as a rare but important cause when evaluating abdominal pain in young and otherwise healthy patients. A delay in diagnosis and treatment extending beyond 48 hours leads to colonic necrosis, amplifying the associated morbidity and mortality. Swift intervention is imperative to mitigate these complications and attain a conclusive remedy.

Sigmoidectomy following sigmoid volvulus: who is at risk of anastomotic failure?

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak following elective sigmoidectomy performed due to sigmoid volvulus (SV) is a devastating complication. The aim of this study was to identify the incidence and risk factors associated with leak in this specific group of patients.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed at two university-affiliated tertiary centres in Israel. All consecutive patients between January 2014 and April 2020 treated for SV with elective sigmoidectomy and primary anastomosis were reviewed and those suffering from anastomotic leak identified. Factors associated with this complication were assessed using univariate analysis and odds ratios subsequently calculated.

RESULTS

Of the 99 patients initially identified, 58 were included in the study group [45 males and 13 females (77.6% versus 22.4% respectively) mean age 67.4 years, range 13-97]. There were 10 anastomotic leaks identified (17.2%). On univariate analysis recurrent decompression (OR 8.28, p = 0.027), age > 80-years (OR 6.88, p = 0.027), open rather than laparoscopic surgery (OR = 5.83, p = 0.005) and ASA grade 3/4 (OR 0.132, p = 0.023) were significantly associated with anastomotic leak. Male sex approached but not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Recurrent endoscopic decompression, age > 80 years, open surgery and ASA grade 3/4 are associated with anastomotic leak and these patients should be considered for formation of a colostomy instead. If an anastomosis is performed, patients should be appropriately counselled and monitored in the perioperative period.

Very rare case of synchronous volvulus of the sigmoid colon and caecum causing large-bowel obstruction

Large-bowel obstruction caused by volvulus is potentially life threatening if not managed promptly. Sigmoid colon is the most common site of volvulus followed by caecum. Synchronous double colonic volvulus is an exceedingly rare entity, with only five cases published previously. We present the case of a 77-year-old man with a synchronous sigmoid and caecal volvulus. He underwent total colectomy with ileostomy formation with a view to reverse the ileostomy at a later date.

Usability of elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy and feasibility of single-incision laparoscopic surgery for sigmoid volvulus: report of three cases

A therapeutic guideline for sigmoid volvulus (SV) has not been established, and the most recommended surgical procedure for SV has not been determined. Our objective is to assess the usability of elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy and the feasibility of single-incision laparoscopic surgery for SV following endoscopic reduction. SV typically affects the elderly and accounts for 1% to 7% of intestinal obstructions in Western countries. We report on 3 patients with SV who underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy following endoscopic reduction, and we first describe single-port surgery for SV. We discuss the 3 patients (a 79-year-old male, an 88-year-old female, and a 67-year-old female) with SV who underwent elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy following endoscopic reduction. All 3 patients underwent laparoscopic sigmoidectomy, and 2 patients underwent single-port laparoscopic surgery without complications. Recurrence of volvulus was not seen during the course of 12 to 24 months. In experienced hands, elective laparoscopic sigmoidectomy after colonoscopic detorsion is a valuable alternative, and single-port surgery is also feasible.

Giant colonic volvulus due to colonic pseudo-obstruction

Acute colonic pseudo-obstruction (ACPO), also known as Ogilvie's syndrome, is a clinical syndrome characterised by gross dilation of the caecum and right hemicolon, which sometimes extends to the sigmoid colon and rectum in the absence of an anatomic lesion in the intestinal lumen. It is characterised by impaired propulsion of contents of the gastrointestinal tract, which results in a clinical picture of intestinal obstruction. A careful examination of the markedly distended colon can exclude several colonic pathologies, including mechanical obstruction and other causes of toxic megacolon. ACPO can sometimes predispose or mimic colonic volvulus, especially in geriatric patients.

CT features of sigmoid volvulus

AIM: To assess the imaging characteristics of sigmoid volvulus using multislice computed tomography (MSCT) to improve the preoperative diagnostic accuracy of CT scan in patients with sigmoid volvulus.

METHODS: The CT imaging characteristics of sigmoid volvulus in six patients who underwent surgery were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS: In all six cases, the sigmoid dilated with large amounts of gas, and the bowel manifested as an inverted U-shape. Five cases showed significant thinning of the bowel wall with small amount of liquid inside, and the remaining one case showed increased density of the bowel wall with large amount of liquid inside. The climax of the inverted U-shaped loop of the colon was located above the lower edge of the liver in six cases and above the transverse colon in 2 cases. "Double bird-beak" sign and "X" sign were seen in all six cases. The afferent loop was located on the top of the efferent loops in 5 cases, except one case in whom the afferent loop was below the efferent loop. Whirl sign was seen in six cases, and the whirl was counter-clockwise in five cases and clockwise in one case.

CONCLUSION: Inverted U-shaped intestinal loop combined with the X sign and "double bird-beak" sign are reliable CT features of sigmoid volvulus. Careful observation and evaluation of CT manifestations can increase the preoperative diagnostic accuracy in sigmoid volvulus.

Delayed presentation of sigmoid volvulus in a young woman

Volvulus is an unusual condition in Western countries, generally isolated to elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. This report describes an unusual case of a very large gangrenous sigmoid volvulus in a young, otherwise healthy 25-year-old female. A review of the diagnosis and management is subsequently described. Without a consideration of the atypical demographics for sigmoid volvulus, the case illustrates the potential morbidity due to a delayed diagnosis. Early identification and management are crucial in treating sigmoid volvulus before the appearance of gangrene and necrosis, thereby avoiding further complications and associated mortality.

Article Commentary: The Twisted Colon: A Review of Sigmoid Volvulus

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is the third leading cause of colon obstruction in adults. In infants and children, it is exceedingly rare with only sporadic cases reported so far. SVs from secondary causes, with congenital megacolon being the most important, are nevertheless more common in young people. The etiology of this disorder is not completely understood. It is known to occur in the setting of redundant sigmoid loop, which rotates around its narrow and elongated mesentery. Although the latter occurs in the setting of constipation, a congenitally elongated colon, and other predisposing factors, there is no consensus on the precipitating factor leading to SV formation. The symptoms are suggestive of small bowel obstruction, but the presentations can be acute or indolent. Plain abdominal radiography is used to diagnose SV in most cases with computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging as the confirmatory tests when necessary. After it has been untwisted, the definitive and standard therapy for SV is sigmoid resection and primary anastomosis. The nonresective alternatives have also been widely used with mixed success, but a large, randomized controlled trial is needed to compare their efficacy with resection and primary anastomosis. Laparoscopic surgery in SV management is unwarranted and costly. Complications of SV include hemorrhagic infarction, perforation, septic shock, and death. The mortality data from SV vary, but the latest literature cites an overall range of 14 to 45 per cent.

Sigmoid volvulus

In sigmoid volvulus (SV), the sigmoid colon wraps around itself and its mesentery. SV accounts for 2% to 50% of all colonic obstructions and has an interesting geographic dispersion. SV generally affects adults, and it is more common in males. The etiology of SV is multifactorial and controversial; the main symptoms are abdominal pain, distention, and constipation, while the main signs are abdominal distention and tenderness. Routine laboratory findings are not pathognomonic: Plain abdominal X-ray radiographs show a dilated sigmoid colon and multiple small or large intestinal air-fluid levels, and abdominal CT and MRI demonstrate a whirled sigmoid mesentery. Flexible endoscopy shows a spiral sphincter-like twist of the mucosa. The diagnosis of SV is established by clinical, radiological, endoscopic, and sometimes operative findings. Although flexible endoscopic detorsion is advocated as the primary treatment choice, emergency surgery is required for patients who present with peritonitis, bowel gangrene, or perforation or for patients whose non-operative treatment is unsuccessful. Although emergency surgery includes various non-definitive or definitive procedures, resection with primary anastomosis is the most commonly recommended procedure. After a successful non-operative detorsion, elective sigmoid resection and anastomosis is recommended. The overall mortality is 10% to 50%, while the overall morbidity is 6% to 24%.

Sigmoid volvulus in Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers

PURPOSE

Sigmoid volvulus is the third leading cause of large-bowel obstruction. The optimal management strategy remains controversial. This study was undertaken to evaluate the care of patients with sigmoid volvulus recently treated at Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals.

METHODS

All patients with the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification, Third Edition code for colonic volvulus during the period 1991 to 1995 were identified in the computerized national Department of Veterans Affairs database. Data on patient demographics, clinical course, and outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Two hundred twenty-eight patients had volvulus of the sigmoid colon and sufficient clinical data for evaluation. The mean age was 70; all were males. Endoscopic decompression was attempted in 189 of 228 (83 percent) patients and was successful in 154 of 189 (81 percent). Management included celiotomy in 178 of 228 (78 percent) patients. There were no intraoperative deaths. Twenty-five of 178 (14 percent) patients died within 30 days of surgery. The mortality rate was 24 percent for emergency operations (19/79), and 6 percent for elective procedures (6/99). Mortality was correlated with emergent surgery (P < 0.01) and necrotic colon (P < 0.05). Among those 50 patients managed by decompression alone, six (12 percent) died during the index admission. Ten of the remaining 44 (23 percent) patients eventually developed recurrent volvulus requiring further treatment, and 2 of 10 (20 percent) patients died.

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort sigmoid volvulus often presents as a surgical emergency. Initial endoscopic decompression resolves the acute obstruction in the majority of cases. Surgical intervention carries a substantial risk of mortality, particularly in the setting of emergent surgery or in the presence of necrotic colon.

Mucosal biopsy findings and venous abnormalities in idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of the mesenteric veins

Idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of the mesenteric veins (IMHMV) is a rare cause of intestinal ischemia secondary to venous compromise. A patient with this condition who presented with crampy abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding initially attributed to inflammatory bowel disease had several colonoscopies and ultimately a sigmoid colectomy. The colonic mucosa in biopsies performed at initial presentation and subsequently and in the resection specimen contained numerous hyperplastic, thick-walled, hyalinized vessels in the lamina propria, which have not been described in this entity previously. Examination of the mucosa in 27 resection specimens of ischemic enterocolitis of various etiologies, in five resections of prolapsed rectum, and in seven colostomy specimens revealed no instance in which there were similar histologic abnormalities. When seen on biopsy, therefore, these features should lead to inclusion of IMHMV in the differential diagnosis. Furthermore, the characteristic lesions of the submucosal and extramural veins in IMHMV were compared with those of 14 examples, from several organs, of veins subjected to arterial pressure and 21 cases of venous hypertension. The marked similarity of the arterialized veins to the mural veins of IMHMV suggests a role for arteriovenous fistulization in the pathogenesis of IMHMV, and a mechanism by which this might occur is proposed.

Emergency resection and primary anastomosis for sigmoid volvulus in an African population

We report 30 patients who underwent operation for sigmoid volvulus during a two year period at the St. Francis Hospital, Tanzania. Five patients were managed initially by non-operative reduction. They all underwent elective resection of the sigmoid during the same hospitalisation with one operative death. Twenty-five patients underwent emergency laparotomy, 12 of them having gangrenous bowel. Resection was carried out in 21 patients, 18 of whom had a primary anastomosis without protective colostomy. In spite of the high incidence of gangrenous bowel (57%), there was only one operative death (5%) in the 18 patients. Initial management of sigmoid volvulus should consist of non-operative attempts at reduction provided that the bowel is viable. Elective resection should be performed during the same hospitalisation. Where non-operative therapy fails or bowel gangrene is present, emergency laparotomy has to be carried out. In the authors' experience resection of the sigmoid and primary anastomosis can be performed safely in this situation.