Sigmoid volvulus an update.

Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.

Sigmoid volvulus is the third most common cause of colonic obstruction in the United States after cancer and diverticulitis. Etiologic factors include anatomic variation, chronic constipation, neurologic disease, and megacolon. Management of sigmoid volvulus involves relief of obstruction and the prevention of recurrent attacks; the outcome depends on the population and selection of patients. Although volvulus is uncommon, it may be encountered during pregnancy and is a condition that poses significant risk to both mother and fetus requiring a management strategy that varies with each trimester.

PMID: 16546032 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]