Sigmoid volvulus by: Palo, Shaina kaye a.

Abstract image of curvy lines. Sigmoid volvulus by: Palo, Shaina kaye a ..

What is Sigmoid Volvulus?. a twisting of the intestine around its blood supply axis most commonly presents in patients who are less mobile; who are bedbound and institutionalized; and who usually have a history of chronic constipation.

patient history. This patient came to the hospital with a five-day history of diarrhea with mucus and no blood, abdominal pain, and abdominal distension, with progressive worsening..

Case discussion. Sigmoid volvulus is one relevant cause of large intestine obstruction in adults and a clinically significant cause of abdominal pain. A delay in recognizing this condition can lead to ischemia of the bowel wall, necrosis, or perforation, which carries a high mortality. CT is the modality of choice to establish this diagnosis. Therefore, radiologists should be aware of this disorder because prompt diagnosis is critical to avoid the life-threatening complications of this condition..

Pre and post care. BEFORE: You may be asked to change into a patient gown. A locker will be provided to secure personal belongings. Please remove all piercings and leave all jewelry and valuables at home. If your doctor ordered a CT scan with contrast, do not eat anything three hours prior to your CT scan. You are encouraged to drink clear liquids. You may also take your prescribed medications prior to your exam. Diabetics should eat a light breakfast or lunch three hours prior to the scan time. AFTER: If contrast dye was used during your procedure, you may be monitored for a period of time for any side effects or reactions to the contrast dye, such as itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any pain, redness, and/or swelling at the IV site after you return home following your procedure, you should notify your doctor as this could indicate an infection or other type of reaction..

Imaging protocols. Patient position : supine position, abdomen centred within the gantry; both arms elevated T ube voltage : 120 kVp Oral contrast: positive contrast agent single breath-hold: inspiration multiplanar reconstructions: axial images: strictly axial to the body axis coronal images: strictly coronal to the body axis.

CASE DISCUSSION. Axial and coronal CT images show markedly distended sigmoid colon, located in the anterior part of the abdomen, which twists around its long axis resulting in a volvulus with a beak-shaped transition point. The segments of the twisted loop converge towards a fulcrum point, which appears as a whirl sign in the sigmoid mesocolon located in the lower left part of the abdomen. The colon proximal to the volvulus is not so distended and filled with stool. The rectum is with no gas..

FINDINGS. This case demonstrates a classic CT presentation of sigmoid volvulus..

Abstract image of curvy lines. Thank you .