Clinical Analysis of Intestinal Volvulus

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The intestinal volvulus is difficult to diagnose, and if the treatment and diagnosis are delayed, there is a risk of high mortality. This study was performed to ensure the more proper management method and diagnostic modality of volvulus. METHODS: Between 1985 and 1998, 16 patients with a diagnosis of colonic and small intestinal volvulus were managed in Soonchunhyang University Chunan Hospital. Medical charts were reviewed, retrospectively and follow-up was done. RESULTS: 15 among the 16 patients with volvulus underwent the operation. The one case was diagnosed and expired before operation. The resection of the lesion and primary anastomosis had been generally selected as the procedure of choice. Segmental resection of the sigmoid colon with primary anastomosis was performed on 7 cases of the sigmoid volvulus. There were 6 cases of the small bowel volvulus, of which 5 cases got a segmental resection of the small bowel with primary repair and the one got a total resection of the small bowel with gastrocolostomy. The right hemicolectomy was performed in 2 cases which were the right colon volvulus. 9 cases of morbidity were developed; there were 5 cases of wound infection and others were enterocutaneous fistula, pulmonary infection, and septic shock respectively. There were three mortality. CONCLUSION: If the small bowel volvulus is present or gangrenous signs are developed, and the management of the intestinal volvulus is delayed, there can be serious complications and the course can be life-threatening. Therefore, if gangrene or small bowel volvulus are suspected, operative management should be seriously considered.