Colonic Volvulus in the United States: Trends, Outcomes, and Predictors of Mortality

Relationship Between Sigmoid Volvulus Subtypes, Clinical Course, and Imaging Findings

Background: Recent studies indicate that the organo-axial subtype of a sigmoid volvulus is more prevalent than the conventional mesentero-axial subtype. Our study aimed to assess the clinical and radiological findings that differentiate between these two subtypes, as well as to ascertain treatment outcomes and prognostic characteristics. Methods: A retrospective review included 54 patients, during which abdominal plain radiographs and computed tomography images were analyzed by two radiologists, and data on recurrence, mortality, and treatment outcomes were documented. Results: The mesentero-axial subtype comprised 40 cases (74%). No distinct radiographic findings were observed to differentiate between the two groups. In computed tomography, the sole significant parameter for differentiation was the number of transition zones. The diameter of the segment exhibiting a volvulus was greater in instances of the mesentero-axial subtype. The endoscopic detorsion treatment proved ineffective in five patients within the mesentero-axial sigmoid volvulus cohort. Conclusions: Identifying these two types of SV on CT images is essential because of their distinct prognoses and therapeutic results.

Should we adopt a "laparoscopy first" strategy? A comparison of 30-day outcomes between converted open from laparoscopic and planned open colectomy for volvulus

While the majority of colectomy for volvulus is performed by an open approach, laparoscopy can be used as a potentially safer alternative. However, conversion to open is needed when the laparoscopic approach is unsuccessful. This study aimed to compare the 30-day outcomes of patients who had converted open from laparoscopy vs planned open colectomy for volvulus to assess a possible "laparoscopy first" strategy. In addition, this study identified risk factors associated with the conversion during laparoscopy. National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) targeted colectomy database from 2012 to 2022 was utilized. Patients with volvulus as the primary indication for laparoscopic and open colectomy were selected. Patients who had a conversion from laparoscopic to open surgery and planned open surgery were further identified. A 1:5 propensity-score matching was applied to converted open and planned open to match sex, race and ethnicity, age, baseline characteristics, preoperative preparation, and indication for surgery (if emergent). Thirty-day postoperative outcomes were examined. There were 1774 (22.10%) and 6254 (77.90%) patients who underwent laparoscopic and planned open colectomy for volvulus, respectively. From laparoscopy, 336 (18.94%) patients were converted to open surgery and 1,680 planned open cases were matched to the converted open cases. After propensity-score matching, patients underwent converted open and planned open had a comparable mortality rate (5.06% vs 3.99%, p = 0.37). However, patients who underwent converted open surgery had higher risks of renal complications (2.68% vs 0.60%, p < 0.01), bleeding requiring transfusion (9.82% vs 6.55%, p = 0.04), and wound complications (17.86% vs 12.26%, p = 0.01). Risk factors associated with conversion from laparoscopic to open colectomy included perforation (aOR = 4.767, p < 0.01), obstruction (aOR = 2.223, p < 0.01), sepsis 48 h before surgery (aOR = 2.952, p < 0.01), chronic kidneys disease (aOR = 1.602, p = 0.01) and preoperative infection (aOR = 1.489, p = 0.03). These identified risk factors demonstrated both strong discriminative (c-statistics = 0.713) and predictive (Brier score = 0.132) powers for open conversion. While laparoscopy for colonic volvulus may offer safer outcomes, a ubiquitous "laparoscopy first" strategy may be approached with caution. The increased risks of complications upon conversion to open surgery, particularly in patients with identified risk factors, suggest that careful patient selection may be crucial.

A multicenter, retrospective cohort study on the diagnosis, treatment and natural history of eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders in the Netherlands

Non-Eosinophilic Esophagitis Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Diseases (non-EoE EGIDs) are poorly understood. Evaluate clinical manifestations, diagnostics and treatment of non-EoE EGIDs at four hospitals in the Netherlands from 1991 to 2019. For this retrospective cohort study, centralized nationwide network and registry for cyto- and histopathology in the Netherlands (PALGA) was used. Seventy patients consented to participate. Median duration of follow up was 26 months, and median age was 36 years. About 44% had eosinophilic colitis (EoC) and 30% had > 1 GI location (multisite EGID). Most patients (91%) had mucosal type, 6% muscular and 3% serosal EGID. Three patients (4%) did not have follow up. Relapsing remitting in 21% (14/67) patients, with most being multisite (43%; 9/21). Single flares in 57% and chronically symptomatic in 22% of population. Concomitant atopy was seen in 29%. Normal endoscopy results in 61%; ileum was commonly identified normal area. Partial or complete symptom improvement to treatment seen in 71%. Results of the longitudinal retrospective Dutch study do not show progression from single site to multisite EGID or change in EGID type. We conclude that identifying patients requires further research as majority of patients had normal endoscopy and vague abdominal symptoms.

Sigmoid volvulus, initial manifestation of rectosigmoid invasive adenocarcinoma in a 52-year-old female: A case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Sigmoid volvulus, an instead identified case of bowel obstruction, is defined as twisting a segment of sigmoid around its mesentery. Despite Western countries in which sigmoid volvulus affects the elderly, in volvulus belt countries, it is a disorder of predominantly men in their 4th decade of life.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 52-year-old woman presented with 4 days of abdominal distension and constipation. Physical exam showed tenderness and an empty rectum. Imaging confirmed sigmoid volvulus. Surgery revealed a large sigmoid tumor causing obstruction. The tumor was resected, and a colostomy was performed.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Volvulus is a condition where the intestine twists, causing obstruction. It's often linked to diet, laxative use, and anatomical factors. Symptoms include abdominal pain and distension. In rare cases, it can occur with colon cancer.

CONCLUSION

The tumor likely acted as a lead point, contributing to the development of volvulus in the long sigmoid colon.

Evaluating Racial Disparities in 30-day Outcomes for African Americans Following Colectomy for Volvulus

BACKGROUND

Surgery is the definitive treatment for colonic volvulus despite initial decompression therapy. In general surgery, African Americans were found to have higher risks of mortality and morbidities. However, racial disparity in colectomy outcomes for volvulus among African Americans had not been explored. This study examined the 30-day outcomes for African Americans following colectomy for volvulus.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) targeted colectomy database from 2012 to 2022 was used. Only patients with volvulus as the primary indication for colectomy were selected. A 1:1 propensity score matching was applied to African Americans and Caucasians to match sex, age, baseline characteristics, preoperative preparation, indication for surgery (if emergent), and operative approaches. Thirty-day postoperative outcomes were examined.

RESULTS

There were 1027 and 7451 African Americans and Caucasians who underwent colectomy for volvulus, respectively. All African Americans were 1:1 propensity-score matched to their Caucasian counterparts. African Americans and Caucasians had a comparable mortality rate (7.21% vs 7.89%, P = 0.62). While African Americans had a higher risk of pulmonary complications (16.85% vs 13.53%, P = 0.04), other surgical complications were all comparable between African Americans and Caucasians. However, African Americans had a longer time from admission to operation (2.70 ± 3.99 vs 2.17 ± 3.36 days, P < 0.01) and a longer length of stay (LOS; 12.81 ± 10.28 vs 10.50 ± 7.72 days, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

African Americans were found to have higher risks of pulmonary complications, delayed operation, and extended LOS. These disparities raise concerns and warrant further investigation into their underlying causes. Effective targeted interventions may be necessary to address these issues.

Sigmoid volvulus-Can CT features predict outcomes and recurrence?

OBJECTIVES

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is a common cause of bowel obstruction, especially in older patients. SV can be mesenteroaxial (M-SV) or organoaxial (O-SV). The purpose of this study was to assess if CT findings in SV are associated with clinical outcomes. including recurrence, choice of management, and mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study includes patients with SV and a CT within 24 hours of presentation. CT features, including mesenteraoxial/organoaxial arrangement, direction of rotation, transition points, distension, whirl-sign, ischemia, and perforation were determined. Demographics, treatment, recurrence, and outcome data were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventeen cases were diagnosed in 80 patients (54 male). The mean age was 70 years (± 17.1). M-SV and O-SV were equally prevalent (n = 39 vs. n = 41, respectively). M-SV was significantly more common with anticlockwise rotation in the axial plane (p = 0.028) and clockwise rotation in the coronal plane (p = 0.015). All patients with imaging features of ischemia underwent surgery (n = 6). There was no significant difference in outcome variables (30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, recurrence) between the O-SV and M-SV groups. The degree of bowel distension on initial presentation was a significant predictor of recurrence, with ≥ 9 cm vs < 9 cm associated with an increased odds of any recurrence (OR: 3.23; 95%CI: 1.39-7.92).

CONCLUSION

In SV, sigmoid distension of more than 9 cm at baseline CT was associated with an increased risk of recurrence. Imaging features of ischemia predicted surgical over endoscopic intervention. Organoaxial and mesenteroaxial SV had similar prevalence, but the type of volvulus was not associated with clinical outcomes or choice of management.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

There is a risk of recurrent sigmoid volvulus with colonic distension greater than 9 cm. This work, comparing volvulus subtypes, shows that this finding at the initial presentation could expedite consideration for surgical management.

KEY POINTS

Reports of outcomes for different subtypes and rotational directions of volvuli have been contradictory. No difference in measured outcomes was found between subtypes; distension ≥ 9 cm predicted recurrence. CT features can aide management of sigmoid volvulus and can prompt surgical intervention.

Extremely dilated intestine

An old woman with severe constipation was dignosed with sigmoid torsion and time-limited surgery was performed to save her life.

Laparoscopic ileopexy for afferent loop syndrome after restorative proctocolectomy-a retrospective case series

BACKGROUND

To study the effect of laparoscopic ileopexy in patients with afferent-loop syndrome (ALS) after restorative proctocolectomy (RP).

METHOD

Ileopexy has been the treatment of choice in patients with ALS for the last 5 years at our department. All patients who had undergone ileopexy for ALS between January 2019 and August 2023 were identified. Data were extracted from the medical records. All patients were contacted and asked standardized questions regarding symptoms of ALS. A symptom score was calculated and compared before surgery and at the last follow-up.

RESULTS

Ten patients, who had undergone ileopexy for ALS, were identified. Eight of these (80%) had been admitted with small bowel obstruction due to ALS. The remaining 2 patients had other symptoms indicative of ALS. In all patients, ileopexy was immediately effective in reducing symptoms. Symptoms recurred after 16.5 weeks (2-80) in 8 patients. Repeat laparoscopy showed that the ileopexy had slipped in 6 of these. Six had a new ileopexy with mesh. Later, one of these developed recurrent symptoms and had a new mesh ileopexy performed. No mesh complications were seen. Symptom score was reduced from 6.5 (1-9) to 2 (0-7) (p = 0.02) at the last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, ileopexy is effective in reducing symptoms of ALS after RP. In a high proportion of patients, it is necessary to use mesh to ensure long-term fixation of the ileum.

Colonic Volvulus

Colonic volvulus represents 10 to 15% of all large bowel obstructions in the United States. It most commonly occurs in the sigmoid colon or cecum. Morbidity and mortality from colonic volvulus are high. It is therefore essential to have a high level of suspicion based on presentation and expedient diagnosis and management to prevent progression to ischemia or perforation. Broad goals of management include evaluation of colon viability, relief of obstruction, and prevention of recurrence. Endoscopic and surgical approaches vary based on the site of volvulus, presence of ischemia or perforation, and patient characteristics. This review outlines the epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management of colonic volvulus. A contemporary diagnostic and treatment algorithm is included.

Comparative analysis of short-term outcomes after semielective and elective surgery for sigmoid volvulus

BACKGROUND

Data to guide surgical timing after colonic decompression for sigmoid volvulus are limited. Thus, we compared the postoperative outcomes of patients with sigmoid volvulus who underwent semielective (during index hospitalization after decompression) and elective surgery (subsequent elective hospitalization).

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of 100% Medicare Provider Analysis and Review Files from 2016 to 2019, including Medicare beneficiaries aged ≥65 years who were urgently/emergently admitted for their index episode of volvulus and underwent colonic decompression followed by surgery.

RESULTS

The mean age of 2,053 patients was 78 (standard deviation 8 years); 7% had elective surgery and 93% had semielective surgery (including 12.5% on the same day as decompression). In a bivariate analysis, elective surgery was associated with greater rates of minimally invasive surgery (32.8% vs 12.6%, P < .001), lower rates of ostomy formation (2.9% vs 36.0%, P < .001), and greater rates of discharge home (89.8% vs 47.4%, P < .001) with similar cumulative length of stay (8 vs 9 days, not significant) compared with semielective surgery. In a multivariable logistic regression, elective surgery was associated with reduced odds of morbidity (odds ratio, 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.49-0.74) and similar odds of mortality (odds ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.50-1.25) compared with semielective surgery, which remained consistent after excluding patients with surgery on the same day as decompression.

CONCLUSIONS

After colonic decompression for sigmoid volvulus, elective surgery appears safe and is associated with favorable outcomes compared with semielective surgery. With the potential severe consequences of volvulus recurrence, these findings underscore the need for algorithms to predict recurrence risk to help guide careful patient selection for elective surgery.

Left iliac fossa sigmoidectomy with mechanical anastomosis in the management of uncomplicated sigmoid volvulus: an observational study at Principal Hospital of Dakar, Senegal

Introduction

sigmoidectomy is the definitive treatment of Sigmoid Volvulus (SV). It can be done either by laparotomy or laparoscopy. Our objective was to describe the left iliac fossa sigmoidectomy with mechanical anastomosis recently introduced in our practice, assess our results after 5 years and evaluate its feasibility in our setting.

Methods

we conducted a prospective, descriptive and analytic study on all patients admitted for uncomplicated SV with successful non-surgical decompression and treated by a left iliac fossa sigmoidectomy with mechanical anastomosis. This study was held, from May 2016 to May 2021, at the Visceral Surgery Department of Principal Hospital of Dakar, Senegal. We studied the demographic variables, the data of the preoperative planning (time between sigmoid decompression and surgery, moment of the sigmoidectomy, mechanical bowel preparation or not, type of anesthesia), the peroperative findings (length and diameter of the sigmoid loop), the surgical procedure (the type of staplers used for the mechanical anastomosis, the duration of the operation, incidents or accidents during sigmoidectomy), the immediate and long-term postoperative course.

Results

we collected 53 patients with a mean age of 50 years ± 17. They were 50 men and 3 women. Mechanical colonic preparation was performed in 18 patients (Group 1) and 35 patients did not benefit from a mechanical bowel preparation before surgery (Group 2). The mean length of the sigmoid loop was 74.5cm ± 16.5. The mean diameter of the descendant branch was 7.8cm ± 0.7 for Group 1 and 5.5cm ± 1 for Group 2 with p = 0.01. One linear cutter stapler was used for the side-to-side anastomosis. It was a 100mm in 43% (n=23) of cases. The terminalization of the side-to-side anastomosis was performed with 1 linear stapler in 37 cases, 2 linear staplers in 15 cases and 3 linear staplers in 1 case. The median duration of the operation was 50 minutes for Group 1 and 37 minutes for Group 2 with p = 0.004. Morbidity was nil in Group 1. In Group 2, we had 1 anastomotic leakage and 1 anastomotic stenosis. Mortality was nil in the 2 groups. The mean hospital stay was 5 days ± 3.7. The mean follow-up was 31 months with no recurrence or incisional hernia.

Conclusion

this surgical method is rapid, simple, reproducible and feasible in our setting with a good postoperative course. Colonic mechanical preparation may not be necessary.

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.

Metachronous volvulus of the descending colon after resection of the sigmoid volvulus; a case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Volvulus of the large bowel is a pathological condition characterized by the twisting of the colon around itself, resulting in obstruction and potentially severe complications such as bowel ischemia and necrosis. The objective of this case report is to highlight the importance of considering volvulus as a differential diagnosis in patients with a history of colonic surgeries, particularly when presenting with symptoms indicative of bowel obstruction.

CASE PRESENTATION

The case was a 55 years old male patient who underwent Hartman procedure three years back for an indication of gangrenous sigmoid volvulus. Three months later the colostomy was reversed and descending colo-rectal end-to-end anastomosis was performed. He currently presented to the emergency department with a one day history of abdominal distension which was progressive and associated with colicky persistent abdominal pain. Exploratory laparotomy was done which showed the descending colon was massively dilated and twisted 360 degree in the counterclockwise direction. The patient was discharged from the ward after one week stay.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Despite of the fact that volvulus is the third most common cause of bowel obstruction, consecutive bowel obstruction secondary to volvulus at a separate time and site is an extremely rare phenomenon.

CONCLUSION

A metachronous colonic volvulus is an extremely rare clinical entity. In a patient who presents with bowel obstruction with a history of prior sigmoid colectomy. it is important to consider metachronous volvulus as differential diagnosis specially in patients with significant risk factors or residing in a geographic area known with high rates of volvulus.

A clinician's perspective on the new organ mesentery and non-vascular mesenteropathies

Mesentery was discovered as a new organ in 2017. It is a continuous membranous tissue from the duodenojejunal flexure to the anorectal junction. It has distinct anatomy, physiology, and disease states. Primary mesenteropathies include vascular and non-vascular diseases. Some of them are common, and some of them are rarely seen in clinical practice. Secondary mesenteropathies occur when infection or malignancy in another organ spreads to the mesentery. Each entity has specific diagnostic and treatment protocols. Increased awareness of different mesenteropathies and an understanding of their various presentations at different stages of life can help in early diagnosis and improved clinical outcomes.

Dependent functional status is an independent risk factor for 30-day mortality and morbidities following colectomy for volvulus: An ACS-NSQIP study from the United States

OBJECTIVES

Colonic volvulus is a common cause of bowel obstructions and surgery is the definitive treatment. Functional status is often associated with adverse postoperative outcomes but its effect on colectomy for volvulus remained under-explored. This study sought to analyze the effect of functional status on the 30-day outcomes of colectomy for volvulus.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) targeted colectomy database from 2012 to 2022 was utilized. Only patients with volvulus as the primary indication for colectomy were included. Thirty-day postoperative outcomes were compared between patients with dependent functional status (DFS) and independent functional status (IFS), adjusted for demographics, baseline characteristics, preoperative preparation, indication for surgery, and operative approaches by multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were 1,476 patients with DFS (945 partially DFS and 531 fully DFS) and 8,824 (85.67 %) IFS patients who underwent colectomy for volvulus. After multivariable analysis, DFS patients had higher risks of mortality (aOR=1.671, 95 CI=1.37-2.038, p < 0.01), pulmonary complications (aOR=2.166, 95 CI=1.85-2.536, p < 0.01), sepsis (aOR=1.31, 95 CI=1.107-1.551, p < 0.01), prolonged postoperative nothing by mouth (NPO) or nasogastric tube (NGT) use (aOR=1.436, 95 CI=1.269-1.626, p < 0.01), discharge not to home (aOR=3.774, 95 CI=3.23-4.411, p < 0.01), and 30-day readmission (aOR=1.196, 95 CI=1.007-1.42, p = 0.04). Moreover, DFS patients had a longer length of stay (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

DFS was identified as an independent risk factor for increased mortality and complications after colectomy for volvulus. Given the substantial overlap between DFS patients and those who have colonic volvulus, these insights can contribute to preoperative risk assessments and postoperative care in these patients.

Endometriosis of the Colon and Pericolic Lymph Nodes Presenting as Cecal Volvulus

Endometriosis, characterized by the ectopic implantation of endometrial tissue, typically involves pelvic structures but infrequently extends to extrapelvic sites such as the gastrointestinal tract. In this report, we present a case of a 44-year-old woman with diffuse abdominal discomfort and constipation. Computed tomography imaging revealed a mass in the cecum, leading to diagnostic colonoscopy and subsequent magnetic resonance imaging. Ultimately, laparoscopy revealed a puckered cecal mass suspected to be invasive malignancy but pathologically confirmed as extensive endometriosis involving the colonic wall and pericolic lymph nodes. Cecal volvulus secondary to endometriosis is exceedingly rare, with surgical intervention being the primary treatment modality. Endometriosis-associated gastrointestinal involvement often masquerades as irritable bowel syndrome, highlighting the importance of considering atypical presentations in young women. This case underscores the need to maintain a high index of suspicion for unusual etiologies in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms and atypical imaging findings to facilitate timely diagnosis and management.

Three twisted tales: A case series of caecal volvulus

INTRODUCTION

Caecal volvulus is a form of intestinal obstruction with life-threatening potential. While rare, it represents a perilous aetiology of intestinal blockage, with clinical manifestations spanning from abdominal discomfort to mortality.

CASE SERIES

We report the cases of three young adults (two males and one female) who presented to the emergency department with different manifestations of severe abdominal pain. All occurred within one month in a tertiary referral centre. Radiological evaluations confirmed the diagnosis of caecal volvulus in all. Subsequently, these individuals underwent right hemicolectomies with end-to-end anastomosis. All experienced an uncomplicated perioperative course.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Caecal volvulus is uncommon, but its yearly incidence is increasing. Early detection and a heightened level of suspicion lead to a timely diagnosis, reducing morbidity and mortality rates.

CONCLUSION

We report a case series of caecal volvulus, emphasizing its variable presentation and highlighting the critical importance of an early diagnosis. Typically, patients have a history of similar episodes that resolve without any medical intervention. Definitive treatment involves right hemicolectomy while conservative management is associated with very high recurrence rates. Early detection allows for prompt intervention, resulting in reduced morbidity and mortality rates.

Patience is key: Association of surgical timing with clinical outcomes in elderly patients with sigmoid volvulus

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines for sigmoid volvulus recommend endoscopy as a first line of treatment for decompression, followed by colectomy as early as possible. Timing of the latter varies greatly. This study compared early (≤2 days) versus delayed (>2 days) sigmoid colectomy.

METHODS

2016-2019 NRD database was queried to identify patients aged ≥65 years admitted for sigmoid volvulus who underwent sequential endoscopic decompression and sigmoid colectomy. Outcomes included mortality, complications, hospital length of stay, readmissions, and hospital costs.

RESULTS

842 patients were included, of which 409 (48.6 ​%) underwent delayed sigmoid colectomy. Delayed sigmoid colectomy was associated with reduced cardiac complications (1.1 ​% vs 0.0 ​%, p ​= ​0.045), reduced ostomy rate (38.3 ​% vs 29.4 ​%, p ​= ​0.013), an increased overall length of stay (12 days vs 8 days, p ​< ​0.001) and increased overall costs (27,764 dollar vs. 24,472 dollar, p ​< ​0.001).

CONCLUSION

In geriatric patient with sigmoid volvulus, delayed surgical resection after decompression is associated with reduced cardiac complications and reduced ostomy rate, while increasing overall hospital length of stay and costs.

Transverse colon volvulus: A case report of an uncommon cause of acute abdomen in pediatrics

Transverse colonic volvulus (TCV) is a serious condition with a mortality rate of up to 33%. It is very rare, especially in children. Despite its rarity, surgeons should have a high index of suspicion and include it in the list of differential diagnoses, especially in patients with developmental delays and associated uncommon syndromes. Resection and anastomosis, whether as a one-stage or two-stage procedure, proved to be the best treatment options for children. Since prompt identification and management are vital, this paper presents useful information on the presentation, treatment, and outcome of this case report.

Cecal volvolus herniation through the Winslow Foramen: a case report and literature review of surgical management

Both cecal volvolus and Winslow hernia are rare clinical presentations accounting for 1-1.5 and 0.08% of bowel obstructions. The combination of the two phenomena has been described so far in 13 case reports. Our patient underwent laparotomy with lesser Sac opening, manual hernia reduction, right hemicolectomy and partial Foramen closure with two simple stitches of PDS 4.0. Due to the scarcity of literature guidelines are not available, the intraoperative state of the tissues and the likelihood of a hernia recurrence play a decisive role in surgical management.

Clinical outcome of patients treated with endoscopic decompression after failure of detorsion for uncomplicated sigmoid volvulus

Background

Endoscopic treatment is the first-line therapy for uncomplicated sigmoid volvulus (SV). However, there are few reports on the clinical course of SV. We investigated the clinical courses of successful and unsuccessful endoscopic detorsions for bowel decompression in patients with uncomplicated SV.

Methods

Between May 2009 and February 2022, patients with uncomplicated SV who underwent endoscopic detorsion or decompression only if detorsion failed were enrolled. A case analysis (all cases) and a patient analysis (first episode cases) were performed. Outcomes were compared between the detorsion and decompression groups, including length of hospital stay, recurrence rate, and days to readmission due to SV.

Results

Seventy patients were included in this study. The success rate of endoscopic detorsion of the SV was 28.6%. There were no differences in age, sex, or other characteristics between the two groups. The hospital stay tended to be longer in the decompression group than in the detorsion group. However, there was no difference in the 30-day, 6-month, or 12-month recurrence rate or the number of days to readmission for SV between the two groups in the case and patient analyses.

Conclusions

This study suggests that endoscopic decompression is a feasible alternative to endoscopic detorsion in patients with uncomplicated SV.

Immature Granulocyte Percentage as an Early Predictor of Necrosis in Volvulus

AIM

Volvulus is a disease characterized by the abnormal twisting of a gaseous distension of the loop of the intestine around itself. Colonic volvulus is the third common cause of colonic obstruction. The study aimed to determine whether the percentage of immature granulocytes is a marker of early necrosis in the volvulus.

METHODS

Demographic characteristics of the cases were collected in the study. In addition, age, gender, white blood cell count, immature granulocyte count, immature granulocyte percentage, platelet lymphocyte ratio, and neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio were compared between groups with and without necrosis in terms of treatment.

RESULTS

The effectiveness of immature granulocyte percentage (IG%) and IG markers were statistically significant in predicting necrosis. The AUC was the highest for IG (0.820, 95% CI: 0.586-1), followed by IG% (0.820, 95% CI: 0.617-1). The optimal cut-off value for the IG was 0.65, with a sensitivity of 76.2% and specificity of 85.7% (P = 0.013). The optimal cut-off value for the IG% was 0.065, with a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 71.4% (0.018).

CONCLUSION

IG% and IG count were found to be useful for predicting necrosis in patients with volvulus.

Cecal Volvulus in an Elderly Woman: A Rare Cause of Bowel Obstruction

Cecal volvulus is a rare, life-threatening form of bowel obstruction caused by the entanglement of the bowel around the mesenteric axis, compromising blood supply and leading to obstruction and ischemia. The diagnosis is challenging due to its highly variable clinical presentation and differential diagnoses, which may delay timely intervention. This is a case report of an 89-year-old woman who presented with a two-day history of lower right quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and a temporary loss of consciousness. She also reported a history of chronic constipation. Clinical examination and imaging were suggestive of bowel obstruction, prompting further investigation. Plain radiography and abdominal CT confirmed bowel obstruction, with suspicion of volvulus. The diagnostic uncertainty between cecal and sigmoid volvulus prompted a colonoscopy, which excluded sigmoid volvulus. Emergency laparotomy revealed cecal volvulus and a distended cecum with ischemic changes but without necrosis. A right hemicolectomy was performed, and the patient recovered well postoperatively. This case report aims to expand the medical knowledge around the topic of cecal volvulus. It underscores the challenges in diagnosing and managing this condition and emphasizes the importance of prompt recognition and surgical intervention to improve patient outcomes.

Cecal volvulus following appendectomy in a teenage patient: A case report

Patients mimicking appendicitis symptoms in a rural setting or those post-appendectomy, indicating cecal volvulus, should always be considered. Swift action can prevent catastrophic consequences.

Abstract

We present a case of a 14-year-old female who initially underwent open appendectomy for acute appendicitis and subsequently experienced symptoms of abdominal distention, vomiting, and fever. Her condition deteriorated following the appendectomy, despite a prior appendectomy for similar symptoms at a different facility. A computed tomography (CT) scan identified cecal volvulus as the underlying issue. This led to the performance of a laparotomy, cecopexy, and decompressive ileostomy. After six weeks, ileostomy closure was successfully carried out, and the patient currently enjoys good health. This case highlights the significance of considering uncommon factors as potential contributors to postoperative complications in young patients.

Outcomes for sigmoid volvulus managed with and without early definitive surgery: 20-year experience in a tertiary referral centre

BACKGROUND

Sigmoid volvulus is rare in Western countries. Patients at risk of sigmoid volvulus are often older with significant co-morbidity. Without sigmoid colectomy there is a high recurrence rate, but indications for surgery are controversial.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study was conducted by reviewing clinical records of patients admitted to Waikato Hospital 1 January 2000 to 1 January 2020 with a diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus. Patient characteristics, clinical features, investigations, management, and outcomes were recorded.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-two patients (87 male) were included with 203 volvulus episodes. Median age 76 years, median Charlson co-morbidity index (CCI) 4. Median follow-up 11 years. 44/132 (33.3%) had surgery during the index admission, two had elective surgery and the remainder had planned non-operative management. 73/132 (55.3%) had surgery at any stage. 42/86 (48.8%) patients managed non-operatively recurred; 66.7% of recurrences were within 6 months. Forty-three (32.6%) died within 12 months of index admission; 28 (21.2%) died during an admission for volvulus. On univariate analysis higher age and abnormal vital signs were associated with inpatient and 12-month mortality; higher CCI was associated with 12-month mortality. On multi-variate analysis increasing age in years was associated with increased risk of death (HR 1.089 [1.052-1.128, P < 0.001]). Normal vital signs at presentation were associated with decreased risk of death (HR 0.147 [0.065-0.334, P < 0.001]).

CONCLUSION

Sigmoid colectomy should be considered at index presentation with sigmoid volvulus. Half of patients managed non-operatively recurred, with two-thirds recurring within 6 months. The mortality rate remains high for subsequent volvulus episodes.

Development and validation of multivariable predictive models for recurrence and mortality following nonoperative management of sigmoid volvulus

AIM

Sigmoid volvulus is a challenging condition, and deciding between elective surgery or expectant management can be complex. The aim of this study was to develop a tool for predicting the risk of recurrent sigmoid volvulus and all-cause mortality within 1 year following initial nonoperative management.

METHOD

This is a retrospective cohort study using Medicare claims data from 2016 to 2018 of beneficiaries admitted urgently/emergently for volvulus, undergoing colonic decompression and discharged alive without surgery (excluding those discharged to hospice). The primary outcomes were recurrent sigmoid volvulus and all-cause mortality within 1 year. Proportional hazards models and logistic regression were employed to identify risk factors and develop prediction equations, which were subsequently validated.

RESULTS

Among the 2078 patients managed nonoperatively, 36.1% experienced recurrent sigmoid volvulus and 28.6% died within 1 year. The prediction model for recurrence integrated age, sex, race, palliative care consultations and four comorbidities, achieving area under the curve values of 0.63 in both the training and testing samples. The model for mortality incorporated age, palliative care consultations and nine comorbidities, with area under the curve values of 0.76 in the training and 0.70 in the testing sample.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a straightforward predictive tool that utilizes easily accessible data to estimate individualized risks of recurrent sigmoid volvulus and all-cause mortality for older adults initially managed nonoperatively. The tool can assist clinicians and patients in making informed decisions about such risks. While the accuracy of the calculator was validated, further confirmation through external validation and prospective studies would enhance its clinical utility.

Epidemiology and age-related trends in surgical outcomes for sigmoid volvulus: a 17-year analysis

BACKGROUND

Sigmoid volvulus, a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by twisted bowel, often requires medical intervention, either through endoscopic or surgical means, to avoid potentially severe outcomes. This study examined the challenges elderly patients face in undergoing surgical treatment, encompassing both mortality and morbidity. Furthermore, it aimed to determine how medical practices and outcomes have changed over a period of 17 years.

METHODS

We utilized data from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Project, which covers the period from 2005 to 2021, to identify patients who underwent left hemicolectomy for colonic volvulus. The patients were categorized into three age groups: < 60 years, 60-75 years, and > 75 years. We performed a meticulous logistic regression analysis, carefully adjusted for risk factors, to compare mortality, morbidity, and types of surgical treatment administered among the different age groups.

RESULTS

Our study included 6775 patients. The breakdown of the patient population was as follows: 2067 patients were < 60 years of age, 2239 were between 60 and 75 years of age, and 2469 were > 75 years of age. The elderly cohort, those aged above 75 years, were predominantly male, had lower BMIs, underwent fewer laparoscopic surgeries, required more diverting stomas and end-ostomies, and had longer hospital stays. Notably, the elderly population faced a mortality risk that was 5.67 times (95% CI 3.64, 9.20) greater than that of their youngest counterparts, with this risk increasing by 10% (95% CI 1.06, 1.14) for each additional year of age. Furthermore, the odds of mortality associated with emergency surgery were 1.63 times (95% CI 1.21, 2.22) higher than those associated with elective surgery. The postoperative morbidity odds were also elevated for emergency surgeries, 1.30 times (95% CI 1.08, 1.58) greater than that for elective cases. Over the 17-year period, we observed a decline in mortality rates, an increase in the utilization of laparoscopic procedures, and overall stability of morbidity rates.

CONCLUSION

Our findings highlight the increased vulnerability of patients over 75 years of age, who are not only at an elevated risk of mortality compared to their younger counterparts, but also a continuously increasing risk with age. By focusing on elective surgeries for younger patients and minimizing emergency surgeries for the elderly, it may be possible to reduce the mortality risk associated with surgical interventions in this population.

Endoscopic Management of Colonic Obstruction

Large bowel obstruction is a serious event that occurs in approximately 25% of all intestinal obstructions. It is attributed to either benign, malignant, functional (pseudo-obstruction), or mechanical conditions. Benign etiologies of colonic obstructions include colon volvulus, anastomotic strictures, radiation injury, ischemia, inflammatory processes such as Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, bezoars, and intussusception.

Palliative Emergency General Surgery

Acute care surgeons encounter patients experiencing surgical emergencies related to advanced malignancy, catastrophic vascular events, or associated with multisystem organ failure. The acute nature is a factor in establishing a relationship between surgeon, patient, and family. Surgeons must use effective communication skills, empathy, and a knowledge of legal and ethical foundations. Training in palliative care principles is limited in many medical school and residency curricula. We offer examples of clinical situations facing acute care surgeons and discuss evidence-based recommendations to facilitate successful treatment and outcomes.

Management of Colonic Emergencies

The etiology of colonic emergencies includes a wide-ranging and diverse set of pathologic conditions. Fortunately, for the surgeon treating a patient with one of these emergencies, the surgical management of these various causes is limited to choosing among proximal diversion, segmental colectomy with or without proximal diversion, or a total abdominal colectomy with end ileostomy (or rarely, an ileorectal anastomosis). The nuanced complexity in these situations usually revolves around the nonsurgical and/or endoscopic options and deciding when to proceed to the operating room.

WSES consensus guidelines on sigmoid volvulus management

Sigmoid volvulus is a common surgical emergency, especially in elderly patients. Patients can present with a wide range of clinical states: from asymptomatic, to frank peritonitis secondary to colonic perforation. These patients generally need urgent treatment, be it endoscopic decompression of the colon or an upfront colectomy. The World Society of Emergency Surgery united a worldwide group of international experts to review the current evidence and propose a consensus guidelines on the management of sigmoid volvulus.

Transverse colon volvulus and the wandering liver

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Transverse colon volvulus is a rare cause of colonic obstruction accounting for 1-3 % of colonic volvuli due to the short mesentery and hepatic and splenic attachments. Previous mobilisation of the flexures and conditions resulting in chronic dilatation of the colon predispose to the condition. The risk of mortality is high, ranging from 11 to 20 % highlighting the need for early diagnosis and intervention.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a case of a 90-year-old male who was referred with a large bowel obstruction with a transition at the splenic flexure and the liver rotated to the left upper quadrant. The patient was taken to the theatre and an emergency laparotomy was performed with findings of a transverse colon volvulus. The liver was initially found in the left upper quadrant and was freely mobile in the upper abdomen consistent with an absence of the hepatic ligament. A subtotal colectomy was performed. Unfortunately, the postoperative course was complicated by a cardiac event and the patient died on postoperative day six.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Absence of hepatic ligaments is a rare cause of transverse colon volvulus which has only been described in one previous case report. Diagnosis of transverse colon volvulus can be challenging and early operative intervention with colectomy is required to minimise mortality.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates an unusual cause of transverse colon volvulus secondary to the absence of the hepatic ligaments and stresses the need for early diagnosis and intervention due to the high mortality associated with this condition.

Bowel Preparation Before Nonelective Sigmoidectomy for Sigmoid Volvulus: Highly Beneficial but Vastly Underused

BACKGROUND

Although strong evidence exists for combined mechanical and oral antibiotic bowel preparation before elective colorectal resection, the utility of preoperative bowel preparation for patients undergoing sigmoid resection after endoscopic decompression of sigmoid volvulus has not been previously examined. The goal of this study was to evaluate the association between bowel preparation and postoperative outcomes for patients undergoing semielective, same-admission sigmoid resection for acute volvulus.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients from the 2012 to 2019 Colectomy-Targeted American College of Surgeons NSQIP dataset who underwent sigmoid resection with primary anastomosis after admission for sigmoid volvulus were included. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare the risk-adjusted 30-day postoperative outcomes of patients who received combined preoperative bowel preparation with those of patients who received either partial (mechanical or oral antibiotic alone) or incomplete bowel preparation. Effort was made to exclude patients whose urgency of clinical condition at hospital admission precluded an attempt at preoperative decompression and subsequent bowel preparation.

RESULTS

Included were 2,429 patients, 322 (13.3%) of whom underwent complete bowel preparation and 2,107 (86.7%) of whom underwent partial or incomplete bowel preparation. Complete bowel preparation was protective against several postoperative complications (including anastomotic leak), mortality, and prolonged postoperative hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates a significant benefit for complete bowel preparation before semielective, same-admission sigmoid resection in patients with acute sigmoid volvulus. However, only a small percentage of patients in this national sample underwent complete preoperative bowel preparation. Broader adoption of bowel preparation may reduce overall rates of complication in patients who require sigmoid colectomy due to volvulus.

A Review of Colonoscopy in Intestinal Diseases

Since the development of the fiberoptic colonoscope in the late 1960s, colonoscopy has been a useful tool to diagnose and treat various intestinal diseases. This article reviews the clinical use of colonoscopy for various intestinal diseases based on present and future perspectives. Intestinal diseases include infectious diseases, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), neoplasms, functional bowel disorders, and others. In cases of infectious diseases, colonoscopy is helpful in making the differential diagnosis, revealing endoscopic gross findings, and obtaining the specimens for pathology. Additionally, colonoscopy provides clues for distinguishing between infectious disease and IBD, and aids in the post-treatment monitoring of IBD. Colonoscopy is essential for the diagnosis of neoplasms that are diagnosed through only pathological confirmation. At present, malignant tumors are commonly being treated using endoscopy because of the advancement of endoscopic resection procedures. Moreover, the characteristics of tumors can be described in more detail by image-enhanced endoscopy and magnifying endoscopy. Colonoscopy can be helpful for the endoscopic decompression of colonic volvulus in large bowel obstruction, balloon dilatation as a treatment for benign stricture, and colon stenting as a treatment for malignant obstruction. In the diagnosis of functional bowel disorder, colonoscopy is used to investigate other organic causes of the symptom.

Sigmoid volvulus: Evaluating identification strategies and contemporary multicenter outcomes

BACKGROUND

There is limited epidemiologic data on sigmoid volvulus (SV) from non-endemic regions. Therefore, we performed a multicenter study to report contemporary outcomes and appraise literature-based methods that pair diagnostic and procedural codes to identify SV.

METHOD

Using an automated search for patients with 'volvulus' in our system from 2011 to 2021, we reviewed electronic charts to clarify the diagnosis, automatically replicate three strategies to identify SV, and retrieved 6-month outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 895 patients, 109 had SV. Literature-based strategies poorly identified SV. At the index admission, patients underwent endoscopic reduction alone (33%), emergent (16.5%), semi-elective (34%), or elective (16.5%) surgery. Endoscopic reduction alone had high recurrence rates and delayed surgery was associated with worse outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Literature-based strategies to identify SV suffer from misclassification bias which affects patient counseling. In this large series, one-third of patients do not undergo during their index admission despite improved outcomes with earlier surgery.

Recurrent sigmoid volvulus secondary to a large pedunculated colonic lipoma

Symptomatic colon lipoma is a rare occurrence in clinical practice, and its association with sigmoid volvulus is even rarer. We present a case of a man in his 70s who presented to our emergency department with suspected intestinal obstruction. Upon examination, sigmoid volvulus was diagnosed and successfully treated endoscopically through decompression and detorsion. However, the patient experienced a recurrence, leading to the decision to perform sigmoid resection as a Hartmann's procedure. Subsequently, a prolapsed tumor was observed through the stoma, which was endoscopically resected, revealing a pedunculated submucous colonic lipoma. This case report highlights the potential association between sigmoid volvulus and the presence of a large colon lipoma. Thus, giant colonic lipoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis among the causes of colonic volvulus.

Abdominal Compartment Syndrome (ACS) With Sigmoid Volvulus (SV): Lost Hours Are Lost Lives

Normal intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) ranges from 0 to 5, and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) occurs when a sustained IAP >20 mmHg causes organ dysfunction. ACS mainly occurs in patients who are critically ill. It occurs due to an injury or disease in the abdomen or pelvic area, including trauma, abdominal surgery, acute pancreatitis, pancreatic ileus, volvulus, fecal impaction, and ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. If not recognized early, ACS leads to multiorgan dysfunction, shock, and sepsis and has high morbidity and mortality. Our patient was brought to the emergency department (ED) following cardiac arrest and resuscitation and was diagnosed with sigmoid volvulus (SV) and ACS. SV is seen in older men, and its presentation is often insidious and leads to bowel gangrene and ACS. The patient's delay in presenting to the hospital and the severity of his condition leads to a poor outcome despite surgery. A delay in recognizing ACS can lead to a worse outcome.

Association of frailty with outcomes of resection for colonic volvulus: A national analysis

Background

With limited national studies available, we characterized the association of frailty with outcomes of surgical resection for colonic volvulus.

Methods

Adults with sigmoid or cecal volvulus undergoing non-elective colectomy were identified in the 2010–2019 Nationwide Readmissions Database. Frailty was identified using the Johns Hopkins indicator which utilizes administrative codes. Multivariable models were developed to examine the association of frailty with in-hospital mortality, perioperative complications, stoma use, length of stay, hospitalization costs, non-home discharge, and 30-day non-elective readmissions.

Results

An estimated 66,767 patients underwent resection for colonic volvulus (Sigmoid: 39.6%; Cecal: 60.4%). Using the Johns Hopkins indicator, 30.3% of patients with sigmoid volvulus and 15.9% of those with cecal volvulus were considered frail. After adjustment, frail patients had higher risk of mortality compared to non-frail in both sigmoid (10.6% [95% CI 9.47–11.7] vs 5.7% [95% CI 5.2–6.2]) and cecal (10.4% [95% CI 9.2–11.6] vs 3.5% [95% CI 3.2–3.8]) volvulus cohorts. Frailty was associated with greater odds of acute venous thromboembolism occurrences (Sigmoid: AOR 1.50 [95% CI 1.18–1.94]; Cecal: AOR 2.0 [95% CI 1.50–2.72]), colostomy formation (Sigmoid: AOR 1.73 [95% CI 1.57–1.91]; Cecal: AOR 1.48 [95% CI 1.10–2.00]), non-home discharge (Sigmoid: AOR 1.97 [95% CI 1.77–2.20]; Cecal: AOR 2.56 [95% CI 2.27–2.89]), and 30-day readmission (Sigmoid: AOR 1.15 [95% CI 1.01–1.30]; Cecal: AOR 1.26 [95% CI 1.10–1.45]). Frailty was associated with incremental increase in length of stay (Sigmoid: +3.4 days [95% CI 2.8–3.9]; Cecal: +3.8 days [95% CI 3.3–4.4]) and costs (Sigmoid: +$7.5k [95% CI 5.9–9.1]; Cecal: +$12.1k [95% CI 10.1–14.1]).

Conclusion

Frailty, measured using a simplified administrative tool, is associated with significantly worse clinical and financial outcomes following non-elective resections for colonic volvulus. Standard assessment of frailty may aid risk-stratification, better inform shared-decision making, and guide healthcare teams in targeted resource allocation in this vulnerable patient population.

A single centre 20-year retrospective cohort study: Percutaneous endoscopic colostomy

AIM

Percutaneous endoscopic colostomy (PEC) represents an important intervention in specific patients. Limited data currently exist. We present the largest recorded study of patients undergoing PEC.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of consultant logbooks highlighted all patients from 1997 to 2020. Two independent reviewers assessed records. Parameters measured were age, sex, indication, number of sites, complications, mortality and survival. Three subgroups were identified: recurrent sigmoid volvulus (RSV), pseudo-obstruction and neurogenic. ANOVA, chi-squared and Fischer's exact tests were utilized; Kaplan-Meier curves estimated survival and the log-rank test was applied. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Ninety-six PEC insertions were done on 91 patients (five reinsertions). There were 66 men (69%) and the mean age was 73.1 years (interquartile range 23). The indications were RSV n = 72, pseudo-obstruction n = 13, neurogenic n = 11. The 30-day complication rate was overall n = 27 (28%), RSV n = 23, pseudo-obstruction n = 4. Nine patients leaked (9.9%) (eight RSV, one pseudo-obstruction), of whom five died. 90-day mortality was 14.6% (14 patients), 18.5% (13/72) for RSV, 7.7% (1/13) for pseudo-obstruction. Overall recurrence following PEC was 10.4%. The median follow-up was 25 months (interquartile range 4.6-62.2 months). At 3, 5 and 10 years survival was 46%, 34% and 26% for RSV, 70%, 55% and 15% for pseudo-obstruction and 91%, 91% and 81% for neurogenic respectively.

CONCLUSION

Recurrent sigmoid volvulus and pseudo-obstruction patients undergoing PEC compared to neurogenic patients have poorer outcomes with higher complication rates and shorter life expectancy. We advocate that high volume specialist units undertake PEC. The significant associated risks of PEC require careful consideration when determining patient suitability. Utilizing risk stratification scores may help guide shared decision making between patients, relatives and clinicians.

Total colonic volvulus with a 720° twist of freely mobile colon

Segmental colonic volvulus involving the sigmoid or ileocaecal region is an important cause of large bowel obstruction and a well-established surgical emergency. Volvulus of the entire colon however is hazardously rare, in which case the diagnosis is likely to be made intraoperatively. The surgeon is then faced with the conundrum of the best surgical management, especially in the case of early intervention with viable bowel. To our knowledge this has never been reported.

Is Laparoscopy Underutilized for Sigmoid Volvulus?

PURPOSE

Minimally invasive surgery has become increasingly prevalent. However, the majority of colectomies for volvulus are still performed via an open technique. The purpose of this study is to determine whether there is a difference in outcomes between laparoscopic and open procedures for sigmoid volvulus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program and colectomy-targeted procedure databases were queried from 2013 to 2018. Patients undergoing partial colectomy without ileal resection for the indication of volvulus were compared based on approach (planned laparoscopic vs. planned open). The 2 groups were propensity score matched for perioperative variables. A subgroup analysis was performed comparing unplanned laparoscopic conversion to open (CTO) with planned open procedures. The primary outcomes were overall morbidity, mortality, and length of stay.

RESULTS

Total 2493 patients were identified. Four hundred ninety-two cases began laparoscopically (20%), of which 391 were completed laparoscopically (79%). Laparoscopic approach was associated with longer operative times (133 vs. 104 min, P<0.001). Laparoscopic approach was associated with decreased overall morbidity (OR: 0.71, 95% CI, 0.54 to 0.93) and decreased length of stay when >7 days (OR: 0.70, 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.94). On subgroup analysis, there was no difference in outcomes when comparing unplanned CTO to planned open approach.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopic approach is used in a fraction of cases for colonic volvulus. When utilized, the majority are completed without CTO. Laparoscopy is associated with fewer complications and shorter hospital stays. Even with unplanned conversion to open, there is no difference in outcomes compared against planned open procedures. Surgeons should consider the utilization of laparoscopy for colonic volvulus.

A tale of two twists: mesentero-axial and organo-axial sigmoid volvulus

INTRODUCTION

Sigmoid volvulus is a potentially devastating and life-threatening condition associated with sigmoid colon redundancy. Many of the classical radiological signs are considered to represent the two adjacent loops of bowel in a mesentero-axial volvulus. However, limited case reports and series have reported on an organo-axial subtype of sigmoid volvulus. This clinical entity is not widely understood. In this study, we assess the radiological and clinical features of mesentero-axial and organo-axial sigmoid volvulus.

METHODS

After institutional board approval (CH62/6/2016-228), all computed tomography (CT) studies from 2011 to 2017 reported as sigmoid volvulus at a single institution were reviewed. The cases were reviewed by three radiologists retrospectively and the course of the bowel followed with a focus on assessing its rotational axis. In each case, the sigmoid volvulus was independently subclassified as mesentero-axial or organo-axial volvulus based on the axis of rotation of the volvulus. In addition, X-ray signs including disproportionate sigmoid dilatation, distended inverted 'U' in sigmoid, coffee bean sign, opposed wall sign, direction of apex of sigmoid loop, liver overlap sign, northern exposure sign and proximal colonic dilatation and CT features including whirl sign, 'X' marks the spot sign, split wall sign and number of transition points were reported for each case. The clinical management and outcomes including morbidity, mortality, endoscopic decompression and need for surgery were also evaluated. The subtype of volvulus was correlated with the above X-ray signs, CT features and clinical management and outcomes. Statistical analysis was conducted using Stata/MP, version 15 (StataCorp LP, College Station, TX, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 38 scans were reviewed. There were 19 patients identified. Of these, six (32%) were reported as mesentero-axial and 13 (68%) as organo-axial volvulus. No X-ray signs were able to distinguish the two types of volvulus. The number of transition points on CT was predictive of volvulus subtype (OR 25, 95% CI: 1.30-1295.30, P = 0.01). Within the limitations of a small cohort, there was no statistically significant difference in unsuccessful endoscopic decompression, need for colectomy, repeated admissions or mortality between the groups.

CONCLUSION

This study has demonstrated that organo-axial sigmoid volvulus may be as common as mesentero-axial volvulus. Distinguishing organo-axial from mesentero-axial volvulus can be achieved on CT, but not on abdominal X-ray. The number of transition points (two for mesentero-axial and one for organo-axial) may be used as a diagnostic feature for differentiating the two forms of volvulus.

Prognostic factors in the decision-making process for sigmoid volvulus: results of a single-centre retrospective cohort study

Background

Sigmoid volvulus is a common cause of emergency surgical admission. Those patients are often treated conservatively with a high rate of recurrence. We wondered if a more aggressive management might be indicated.

Methods

We have reviewed data of patients diagnosed with acute sigmoid volvulus over a 2-year period. The primary endpoint was patient survival.

Results

We analysed 332 admissions of 78 patients. 39.7% underwent resection. Survival was 54.9 ± 8.8 months from the first hospitalization, irrespective of the treatment. Long-term survival was positively influenced by being female, having a low “social score”, a younger age and surgery. Multivariate analysis showed that only being female and surgery were independently associated with better survival.

Conclusion

Early surgery may be the best approach in patients with recurrent sigmoid volvulus, as it ensures longer survival with a better quality of life, regardless of the patient’s social and functional condition.

Sigmoid volvulus: outcomes of treatment and predictors of morbidity and mortality

Purpose

To analyze the treatment outcomes for sigmoid volvulus (SV) and identify risk factors of complications and mortality.

Methods

Observational study of all consecutive adult patients diagnosed with SV who were admitted from January 2000 to December 2020 in a tertiary university institution for conservative management, urgent or elective surgery. Primary outcomes were 30-day postoperative morbidity, mortality and 2-year overall survival (OS), including analysis of risk factors for postoperative morbidity or mortality and prognostic factors for 2-year OS.

Results

A total of 92 patients were included. Conservative management was performed in 43 cases (46.7%), 27 patients (29.4%) underwent emergent surgery and 22 (23.9%) were scheduled for elective surgery. Successful decompression was achieved in 87.8% of cases, but the recurrence rate was 47.2%. Mortality rates following episodes were higher for conservative treatment than for urgent or elective surgery (37.2%, 22.2%, 9.1%, respectively; p = 0.044). ASA score > III was an independent risk factor for complications (OR = 5.570, 95% CI = 1.740–17.829, p < 0.001) and mortality (OR = 6.139, 95% CI = 2.629–14.335, p < 0.001) in the 30 days after admission. Patients who underwent elective surgery showed higher 2-year OS than those with conservative treatment (p = 0.011). Elective surgery (HR = 2.604, 95% CI = 1.185–5.714, p = 0.017) and ASA score > III (HR = 0.351, 95% CI = 0.192–0.641, p = 0.001) were independent prognostic factors for 2-year OS.

Conclusion

Successful endoscopic decompression can be achieved in most SV patients, but with the drawbacks of high recurrence, morbidity and mortality rates. Concurrent severe comorbidities and conservative treatment were independent prognostic factors for morbidity and survival in SV.

Elective Laparoscopic Sigmoidectomy with Preservation of the Superior Rectal Artery Prior to Endoscopic Decompression in Sigmoid Volvulus

Sigmoid volvulus is a frequent cause of intestinal obstruction. Its management has evolved with the use of laparoscopic surgery, achieving an elective sigmoid resection with anastomosis after a flexible endoscopic detorsion. A female patient was admitted to the emergency room with abdominal pain, distention, and constipation. The abdominal computed tomography showed a whirled sigmoid mesentery in addition to dilated sigmoid loops, and coffee bean sign. The patient successfully underwent a flexible endoscopic detorsion and was scheduled for elective sigmoid colectomy with rectal superior artery preservation and primary anastomosis. During the sigmoid resection, the superior rectal artery preservation is related to a better prognostic, with less bleeding, anastomotic leakage, and hospital stay. Currently, there are few reports of the laparoscopic preservation of the superior rectal artery in patients with sigmoid volvulus.

Caecal volvulus: high index of suspicion is the key to early diagnosis

Caecal volvulus represents an uncommon acute surgical presentation of bowel obstruction. Familiarity with particular long-term symptoms and pre-disposing factors can help a clinician identify caecal volvulus as a possible diagnosis. There has been a changing vogue of radiological investigation and surgical interventions. We present a summary of these options.

A rare case of volvulus after off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery in an opium addict patient revised

Background:

Volvulus of colon is a very rare phenomenon in post cardiac surgery course, and their predicting factor in most patients is unknown. Between colonic volvulus, splenic flexure is the rarest site for torsion in general population. The main symptoms are vague abdominal pain, vomiting and distension. The primary diagnostic images include plain chest x-ray, CT scan and colonoscopy.

Case Presentation:

We report the case of a 57-year -old opium male addict, who was. Admitted for abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting five days after off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB). An abdominal x-ray reported a colonic volvulus. Exploratory laparotomy showed acute abdomen resulting from a gangrene of long segment of splenic flexure caused by volvulus.

Conclusion:

Gastrointestinal complication such as volvulus is an exceedingly rare complication of OPCAB, despite the absence of anatomic abnormalities only complete colonic malrotation as the result of mega colon and constipation, the main pathogenetic causes. This patient was unique because of careful literature search revealed that this case was the first reported volvulus that has been described so far.