Volvulus is a condition in which the bowel twists on itself, causing obstruction to the flow of material through the bowel. It can also lead to obstruction of the blood supply to the intestine itself, which can result in tissue death within the bowel.

What is the Pathology of Volvulus?

The pathology of volvulus is:

-Etiology: The cause of volvulus is an increase in the span of the sigmoid colon, such as chronic constipation, infections, neuropsychiatric disorders, and electrolyte abnormalities.

-Genes involved: None.

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to volvulus are: When the bowel loop is overloaded with material, it becomes susceptible to torsion along the axis of an elongated mesentery. A large pelvic mass or a large gravid uterus can alter the position of the intra-abdominal organs, predisposing to the formation of volvulus.

-Histology: The histology associated with volvulus shows bent inner tube sign with the apex of the volvulus located in the left upper quadrant.

How does Volvulus Present?

Patients with volvulus typically male and present in adults between the ages of 50 and 80. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with volvulus include: Abdominal tenderness, nausea or vomiting, bloody or dark red stool, constipation, and disintended abdomen.

How is Volvulus Diagnosed?

Disease in sentence case is diagnosed by medical imaging such as plain X-rays, a GI series, or CT scan.

How is Volvulus Treated?

Volvulus is treated by surgery to correct a volvulus. 

What is the Prognosis of Volvulus?

The prognosis of volvulus is poor unless treated.