J R Wax1, T L Christie. 1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, U.S. Naval Hospital, Portsmouth, Virginia.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Volvulus is the second most common cause of intestinal obstruction in pregnancy. Rarely is the small bowel involved, and even less frequently is the volvulus complete. CASE: The patient was referred at 24 weeks and 4 days' gestation for persistent anorexia, emesis, and abdominal distention. History, physical examination, and abdominal radiographs were consistent with a complete small-bowel obstruction. Laparotomy revealed two adhesive bands, which were lysed, and a 360 degrees volvulus of the small bowel about its mesentery, which was successfully reduced. CONCLUSION: This patient represents a case of complete small-bowel volvulus successfully treated in the second trimester by detorsion.
BACKGROUND: Volvulus is the second most common cause of intestinal obstruction in pregnancy. Rarely is the small bowel involved, and even less frequently is the volvulus complete. CASE: The patient was referred at 24 weeks and 4 days' gestation for persistent anorexia, emesis, and abdominal distention. History, physical examination, and abdominal radiographs were consistent with a complete small-bowel obstruction. Laparotomy revealed two adhesive bands, which were lysed, and a 360 degrees volvulus of the small bowel about its mesentery, which was successfully reduced. CONCLUSION: This patient represents a case of complete small-bowel volvulus successfully treated in the second trimester by detorsion.