volvulus Flashcards
1
Q
define volvulus
A
torsion of the colon around its mesenteric axis resulting in compromised blood flow and closed loop obstruction
2
Q
what parts of the gut can be affected by volvulus?
A
o Sigmoid colon - 80%
o Caecum - 20%
3
Q
what are the associations of sigmoid volvulus?
A
- Older patients
- Chronic constipation
- Chagas disease
- Neurological conditions e.g. Parkinson’s disease, Duchenne muscular dystrophy
- Psychiatric conditions
4
Q
what are the associations with caecal volvulus?
A
- all ages
- adhesions
- pregnancy
5
Q
presenting symptoms of volvulus?
A
- Severe colicky abdominal pain and swelling
- Absolute constipation
- Abdominal bloating
- Vomiting
6
Q
signs of volvulus on physical examination?
A
- Signs of bowel obstruction
- Absent or tinkling bowel sounds
- Fever
- Tachycardia
- Signs of dehydration
7
Q
investigations for volvulus?
A
• AXR o Sigmoid volvulus - Large bowel obstruction - Coffee bean sign o Caecal volvulus - Small bowel obstruction
