Antenatal diagnosis and management of fetal mid-gut volvulus

ABSTRACT

Fetal volvulus is an uncommon cause of bowel obstruction, which is rarely detected by an antenatal ultrasound scan. We report a case which presented with fetal stomach and small bowels dilatation at 33 weeks of gestation detected by ultrasonography. She was referred to our unit for safe delivery at 34th week of gestation following a spontaneous rupture of membranes and signs of fetal distress. Delivery was accomplished by Cesarean section. Postnatally, the infant was surgically explored with resection of ileum and end to end anastomosis because of bowel gangrene and volvulus. Ultrasound diagnosis during pregnancy with fetal bowels dilatation is an important tool and may lead to early diagnosis and optimal management of intestinal obstruction