Intrauterine volvulus without malrotation

This report describes a case of intrauterine volvulus of the small bowel without associated malrotation, presenting in a neonate with unusual clinical features and intraoperative findings. This condition was diagnosed in a baby boy in Kuwait in 1995, and successfully treated. Volvulus without malrotation is extremely rare and there are only few reports of surviving infants with this problem. The diversity of clinical presentation and lack of specific clinical or radiological features make recognition of this problem difficult and lead to increased morbidity and mortality

Epidemiological characteristics of abdominal hydatidosis among adult surgery patients in the Al-Jahra district in Kuwait

Dogs are kept in the Al-Jahra area as part of a traditional lifestyle based on raising sheep. Dogs and sheep are reservoirs for Echinoccocus granulosus, a parasite causing hydatidosis in humans. Thirty- seven cases seen and/or treated at the Al-Jahra Hospital, Kuwait between 1991-96 were reviewed. The female/male ratio of these cases was 4:1 and the mean age was 43.7 years. In 27% of cases, silent cysts were discovered inadvertently, and did not receive any treatment. In most cases where surgery was performed, cysts were excised with or without drainage of the cavity, and only 7 cases developed post operative complications. On average, patients with a drain stayed in hospital for a relatively longer period and had a higher likelihood of complications than those without. The study indicated that excision of the cyst without drainage offered a better quality of recovery for patients. Better public health measures need to be taken in areas where livestock are kept near human habitations