Difference Between Sigmoid and Cecal Volvulus

Whereas sigmoid volvulus is usually an acquired condition, cecal volvulus is due to congenital incomplete dorsal mesenteric fixation of the cecum or ascending colon associated with an abnormally elongated mesentery distal to this area of absent mesentery.

1. What causes cecal volvulus?
2. What is the most common type of colonic volvulus?
3. How is sigmoid volvulus diagnosed?
4. How do you treat a volvulus sigmoid colon?
5. Is volvulus painful?
6. How do you prevent volvulus?
7. Does Coke help with bowel obstruction?
8. What does a twisted colon feel like?
9. Why is sigmoid volvulus more common?
10. Why does volvulus occur in the sigmoid colon?
11. Is sigmoid volvulus an emergency?
12. How serious is a twisted colon?

What causes cecal volvulus?

Cecal volvulus is caused by axial twisting of the cecum along with the terminal ileum and ascending colon [2]. It is responsible for approximately 1–1.5% of all intestinal obstructions, while 11% of all volvulus-related intestinal obstructions, and its incidence is 2.8–7.1 cases per million annually [1].

What is the most common type of colonic volvulus?

Sigmoid volvulus is the most-common form of volvulus of the gastrointestinal tract. and is responsible for 8% of all intestinal obstructions. Sigmoid volvulus is particularly common in elderly persons and constipated patients.

How is sigmoid volvulus diagnosed?

Plain abdominal radiographic findings are usually diagnostic of sigmoid volvulus. Decompression may be achieved by the introduction of a stiff tube per rectum, aided by endoscopy or fluoroscopy. A single-contrast barium enema examination is usually adequate if it is required, as in cases when the diagnosis is in doubt.

How do you treat a volvulus sigmoid colon?

Nonoperative detorsion is advocated as the primary treatment choice in uncomplicated acute sigmoid volvulus. Although rectal tubes, barium enemas or rigid sigmoidoscopy have been widely used, flexible sigmoidoscopy is now the preferred nonoperative procedure.

Is volvulus painful?

The symptoms of volvulus appear suddenly and severely, so people usually go straight to the emergency room for prompt evaluation. Symptoms of volvulus include the following: abdominal pain and tenderness.

How do you prevent volvulus?

There are no current guidelines to prevent volvulus. There are several surgical procedures that may help reduce your chance of having another volvulus. Talk with your doctor about what options may be best for you.

Does Coke help with bowel obstruction?

Researchers at the medical school of Athens University found that of the 46 patients who were given Coca-Cola to treat the blockage, the treatment cleared the blockage in half, 19 patients needed additional non-invasive treatment, and four needed full surgery.

What does a twisted colon feel like?

Sudden severe abdominal pain, especially in the lower abdomen and on the left side, is common with colon spasms. The pain can vary in its intensity with each spasm. Gas or bloating. These signs may occur any time of the day, regardless of diet.

Why is sigmoid volvulus more common?

Sigmoid volvulus is more common in Africa, as the food intake is of high fiber and the base of the sigmoid mesentery in the African population is narrow compared with other ethnic groups, leading to an anatomical situation that makes the population more susceptible to developing a sigmoid volvulus.

Why does volvulus occur in the sigmoid colon?

Sigmoid volvulus may occur because of sigmoid elongation, resulting in a redundant loop. Most commonly, this is the result of chronic constipation and the progressive dilatation and lengthening of the sigmoid colon and its mesentery.

Is sigmoid volvulus an emergency?

Sigmoid volvulus is considered a medical emergency and should prompt immediate treatment. If the colon is twisted and the blood supply is intact, then a colonoscopy may be performed to untwist the colon. This usually resolves the blockage quickly.

How serious is a twisted colon?

The mesentery may become so tightly twisted that blood flow to the affected part of the intestine is cut off. This situation can lead to death of the blood-starved tissue and tearing of the intestinal wall—a life-threatening event and a medical emergency.