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Lee and Choi: Chronic Constipation Led to Sigmoid Volvulus in a Child
Case Report
Journal of the Korean Surgical Society

Journal of the Korean Surgical Society 2009; 77(6): 441-444.

Published online: 4 December 2009

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4174/jkss.2009.77.6.441

Chronic Constipation Led to Sigmoid Volvulus in a Child

Ho Kyun Lee, M.D., Soo Jin Na Choi, M.D.

Department of Surgery, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea.

Corresponding author (choisjn@jnu.ac.kr)

Received 2 February 2009       Accepted 30 April 2009

Copyright © 2009 The Korean Surgical Society

Abstract

Sigmoid volvulus is uncommon in children. Chronic constipation rarely leads to sigmoid volvulus. We report the experience of a case of sigmoid volvulus led by chronic constipation in a child. An 11-year-old girl complained abdominal pain and constipation, which had continued for previous 3 years. Under the impression of sigmoid volvulus by simple abdominal x-ray and abdominal computed tomography, emergency colonoscopic reduction of the volvulus tried to fail to the emergency segmental resection of the twisted sigmoid colon. After 3 months of operation, her constipation improved gradually with no other untoward symptoms so far.

Keywords: Sigmoid colon, Volvulus, Constipation

Figures and Tables

Fig. 1
Plain abdominal film, showing 'coffee bean' shaped distension of sigmoid colon.
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Fig. 2
Abdominal computed tomography, demonstrating dilated loops of sigmoid colon and proximal large bowel. 'Whirl pool sign' (Arrow) caused by torsion of sigmoid mesentery is noticed.
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Fig. 3
Operation findings, showing twisting and huge distension of sigmoid colon.
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Fig. 4
Photomicroscopic findings, revealing ganglionic cells (Arrow) in rectal biopsy (H&E, ×200).
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