A Case of Sigmoid Volvulus Associated With Constipation

Abstract

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in adolescents. Delay in diagnosis may lead to complications such as necrosis and perforation of the volvulated colon. Clinical presentations are non-specific and the diagnosis is based on high clinical suspicion. We report a 14-year-old male patient who presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and no stool output. It was learned that the patient had these complaints for the last four years and had been receiving constipation treatment. In the standing abdominal X ray, the classic coffee bean finding seen in the sigmoid volvulus was found. A diagnostic laparotomy was performed, which revealed a 180-degree rotation of the mesentery and a significant diameter difference in the colon due to significant dilatation proximal to the volvulus. This case with SV without complications reminds us that SV should be considered as a differential in patients presenting with acute or recurrent abdominal pain and intestinal obstruction.