Sigmoid Volvulus: A Rare Cause of Acute Colonic Obstruction in Children

Abstract

Sigmoid volvulus is a rare cause of ileus among children. Chronic constipation, long colonic mesentery, Hirschsprung disease are predisposing factors. We present a case of 14-year-old boy with acute colonic obstruction suffering from constipation for the last year. Abdominal computed tomography was used for the differential diagnosis of the obstruction. Conservative treatment with colonoscopic detorsion was successful in the first attack but after 2 weeks, another volvulus attack occurred and also managed with colonoscopic detorsion in the acute setting and later elective sigmoidectomy was performed. Patient had an uneventful postoperative period and no complications occurred in the following year. Sigmoid volvulus, although rare, should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis in patients with ileus.

Key words: Sigmoid volvulus, adolescent, ileus, colonic obstruction.