Volvulus of the colon in four dogs

Abstract

Four dogs were examined because of vomiting of 7 to 48 hours' duration. Gas-distended segments of intestine were identified radiographically in all dogs, but the affected portion of the intestinal tract could not always be identified as the colon. Volvulus of the colon was diagnosed during surgery in all 4 dogs. Gastrocolopexy was performed following derotation of the colon in 3 of the dogs. In 1 dog, a colectomy and an ileorectal anastomosis were performed. All 4 dogs survived. Volvulus of the colon should be considered as a cause of vomiting of short duration in dogs for which there is radiographic evidence of intestinal dilatation.

Colonic or ileocecocolic volvulus in 13 dogs (2005‐2016)

“…Intestinal torsion describes the twisting of an intestinal segment around its long axis, while intestinal or mesenteric volvulus describes a rotation of a section of bowel around its mesenteric axis . The literature recognizes either torsion of the colon or cecal‐colic volvulus, but recent reports and surgical textbooks frequently use the terms volvulus and torsion interchangeably, irrespective of the location and type of twisting . The distinction between these terms and associated conditions therefore remains unclear.…”

CT findings in five dogs with surgically confirmed colonic torsion

“…20 Clinical signs in dogs with colonic torsion are usually acute and nonspecific and most commonly include vomiting, lethargy, abdominal pain, and hypovolemic shock. 2,4,5,20 Dogs may also present with diarrhea or tenesmus, although this is considered to be less common. 5 This is supported by the results of the current study.…”

“…Colonic torsion, as in small or large bowel volvulus, is a life-threatening condition that results in colonic ischemia, necrosis, perforation, sepsis, and eventual death. 1,4 Colonic torsion is defined as a twisting of the colon around its longitudinal axis. Colonic volvulus refers to rotation of the organ around its mesenteric pedicle.…”

“…suggested that dogs with prior history of gastrointestinal disease and/or abdominal surgery may be predisposed to developing colonic torsion. 4,6 The radiographic signs of colonic torsion in dogs have recently been described. 2 The most common radiographic signs include segmental distension and focal narrowing of the colon and displacement of the descending colon and cecum.…”

“…C, Sagittal view of the mid abdomen in soft tissue window (window level = 90 and window width = 650) of Dog 5. A small filling defect is identified in the portal vein at the porta hepatis (arrowhead) adult, male, large breed dogs such as Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers, and German Shepherds 2,4,6,20. The reason for a higher incidence in males remains unknown 21.…”