[Volvulus of the pelvic colon. Apropos of 59 cases in the western Africa savannah area].

The authors describe their experience after treatment of 59 cases of volvulus of the pelvic colon. This disorder is frequent in West Africa and affects the protein deficient malnourished population. A definite predominance of volvulus occurred during the dry season between December and April, perhaps related to a diet richer in cellulose or deficient in water. There was a delay in presentation at the Hospital Center; necrosis of the twisted loop, the age of the patient and multiple associated conditions all contributed to the severity of this condition. Treatment had three aims: removal of the obstruction, reestablishment of continuity and avoidance of recurrence. Indications were dictated by the patient's general condition and the vascular status of the loop of bowel. It is reasonable to attempt reduction via intubation if the loop of bowel appears viable. Success enables a colectomy to be performed after a preparation, while failure necessitates surgical correction of ideally colectomy in a one stage procedure. On the other hand, a gangrenous loop necessitates colectomy without untwisting, with closure of the distal end using the Hartmann technique and with reestablishment of continuity 3 weeks later.