Intestinal malrotation in adults. Roentgenographic assessment with emphasis on isolated complete and partial nonrotations.

Intestinal malrotation may occur as an isolated deformity. It may involve either the proximal (duodenojejunal) or the distal (cecocolic) intestinal segment. A survey of 28 consecutive cases of rotational abnormalities in the adult population demonstrates a diversity of roentgenographic presentations. Twelve cases exhibited the classical form of nonrotation of the entire midgut. The rest showed isolated forms of complete and partial rotations as well as a variety of intermediary forms previously not reported in the literature. Familiarization with this concept avoids confusing interpretations and errors in the roentgenographic diagnosis.