Volvulus (Twisting of Intestine)
Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Emergency Surgical Treatment
Advanced Emergency GI Care in Thane – By Dr. Ankur Bhanushali
What Is Volvulus?
Volvulus is a life-threatening condition in which a part of the intestine twists around itself, leading to intestinal obstruction and cut-off blood supply.
If not treated urgently, volvulus can cause gangrene of the bowel, sepsis, and even death.
Types of Volvulus
✔ Sigmoid volvulus (most common in adults)
✔ Cecal volvulus
✔ Gastric volvulus
✔ Midgut volvulus (common in children)
Causes of Volvulus
✔ Long, mobile intestine
✔ Chronic constipation
✔ Previous abdominal surgery
✔ Intestinal malrotation
✔ Neurological disorders
✔ Elderly age group
Symptoms of Volvulus
✔ Sudden severe abdominal pain
✔ Abdominal bloating and distension
✔ Constipation or inability to pass gas
✔ Vomiting (may be fecal in advanced cases)
✔ Rapid heartbeat
✔ Fever (late sign)
Emergency Warning Signs
🚨 Severe abdominal pain with distension
🚨 Persistent vomiting
🚨 Signs of shock (low BP, fast pulse)
🚨 Severe constipation for several days
Volvulus is a surgical emergency.
How Is Volvulus Diagnosed?
✔ Abdominal X-ray (coffee bean sign)
✔ CT scan abdomen (gold standard)
✔ Blood tests to assess infection and dehydration
Treatment Options for Volvulus
Treatment depends on type, severity, and bowel viability.
Non-Surgical Treatment (Selected Cases)
✔ Endoscopic detorsion
✔ Rectal tube decompression
✔ Temporary relief only
⚠ Risk of recurrence is high without surgery.
Surgical Treatment – Definitive Management
✔ Emergency laparoscopic or open surgery
✔ Untwisting of bowel
✔ Removal of dead intestine (if present)
✔ Fixation of bowel to prevent recurrence
Advantages of Early Surgical Intervention
✔ Saves bowel from gangrene
✔ Prevents sepsis
✔ Reduces hospital stay
✔ Improves survival
Recovery After Volvulus Surgery
✔ Hospital stay: 3–7 days
✔ Gradual return to oral diet
✔ Pain management
✔ Long-term bowel care and follow-up
Possible Complications If Delayed
✔ Bowel gangrene
✔ Perforation
✔ Septic shock
✔ Permanent stoma formation
Can Volvulus Be Prevented?
✔ Treat chronic constipation
✔ Early evaluation of abdominal pain
✔ Timely surgery for recurrent episodes
Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bhanushali?
✔ Expertise in emergency GI surgery
✔ Advanced laparoscopic techniques
✔ Rapid diagnosis and intervention
✔ Patient-centric care
Aayush Multispeciality Hospital – Full Address
📍 1st Floor, Marigold Apartment
Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi,
Thane West – 400602,
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33033
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/3Msc7YZqVkV9mQMQ7
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic – Full Address
📍 Shop No. 4, Laxmi Krupa Building
Edulji Road, Charai,
Thane West – 400602,
Maharashtra, India
📞 +91 86910 33066
🌐 https://bestsurgeoninthane.com
📍 Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XmmGNbgFyhGcqfvV6
