A Potentially Serious Condition
Volvulusoccurs when part of the intestine loops around and folds over itself.
It often happens in thececaland sigmoid colon sections of the intestines.
Volvulus can lead to bowel perforation andnecrosis, or tissue death, which can be life-threatening.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
This article explains volvulus symptoms and the causes of volvulus.
Volvulus Symptoms
Volvulus symptoms usually occur over time and gradually get worse.
These symptoms may begin with cramping, but the pain eventually becomes unbearable.
Vomiting usually begins a few days after the onset of the pain.
Both children and adults with volvulus may develophemodynamicinstabilityfrom not having enough fluid intake or because of septic shock.
Along with the cecal and sigmoid colons, the stomach may be affected.
In children, the small intestine is usually where volvulus occurs.
Causes of Volvulus
The causes of volvulus are not entirely known.
It primarily occurs in older adults between the ages of 60 and 80.
It often affects people living with underlying neurologic or psychiatric conditions.
The retained fecal matter in the colon of people with chronicconstipationmay lead to elongation of the sigmoid colon.
It also may become dilated, or widen.
About 80% of these cases of intestinal malrotation are diagnosed in newborns.
Volvulus and malrotation may be associated with other conditions.
Intestinal Detorsion
Volvulus is due to intestinal twisting, but it’s also possible for intestinaldetorsionto happen.
This is more likely to occur in younger people, who experience symptoms that come and go multiple times.
They may have painful bouts that spontaneously resolve with time.
This does not mean the issue goes away.
It may just take more time to diagnose and treat.
Labs and Tests
Lab tests are usually done to checkelectrolytesor other markers for infection and necrosis.
A urine test may be needed to rule out anyurinary tractor bladder involvement.
If you’re of childbearing age, you also may need a pregnancy test.
People who are already quite sick when they see a healthcare provider may need a more detailed lab workup.
This may include blood tests for liver function and pancreatic function.
CT Scan
In adults, an abdominal computed tomography (CT scan) may be performed.
(For children, an ultrasound can be performed initially to prevent radiation exposure.)
Findings consistent with volvulus include a distended large bowel.
“This procedure relies on fluoroscopy.
The process of untwisting the intestines is called “reducing” the volvulus.
If volvulus happens twice, the risk of even more volvulus episodes is even higher.
Is a Colostomy Necessary?
Surgery is necessary for most cases of cecal volvulus because of the location of the cecum.
If you have symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.
An early diagnosis and treatment may improve the outcome.
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