Korean J Gastrointest Endosc.  2006 Aug;33(2):105-109.

Two Cases of Sigmoid Volvulus Treated by Emergency Colonoscopic Reduction Procedure

• Kim JM
• Lee SY
• Kim BG
• Hwang JH
• Kwon HJ
• Choi HS
• Jang SM
• Lee JN
• Lee SH

Abstract

A volvulus of the colon is a twisting of a redundant segment of the colon at its narrow mesentery. A sigmoid volvulus is the most common type. This disorder may spontaneously reduce and recur as a chronic problem. However, it more frequently becomes acute as a result of an obstruction, which can lead to strangulation and gangrene with a high mortality if not treated promptly. Colonoscopic reduction and decompression is the preferred initial treatment for patients with a sigmoid volvulus who show no signs of bowel strangulation, which may be the cause of the high mortality associated with emergency surgery. We experienced 2 cases of a sigmoid volvulus in a 44-year-old female and a 51-year-old male. The sigmoid volvulus was diagnosed by simple abdominal film and treated successfully by an emergency colonoscopic reduction. We report our experience on the use of colonoscopy to treat sigmoid volvulus with a reviews of the relevant literlature.

Keyword

Sigmoid volvulus; Emergency colonoscopic reduction

MeSH Terms

Female
Humans
Mortality