Laparoscopic detorsion and colopexy for splenic flexure volvulus in an infant.

Abstract

Primary splenic flexure volvulus is a rare entity. We describe the first case of splenic flexure volvulus managed by a laparoscopic approach. A previously healthy 32-month-old girl presented with constipation, appetite loss, and nonbilious vomiting of 15 days of duration. Contrast enema and 3-dimensional computed tomography revealed a "bird's beak" sign at the splenic flexure, consistent with the diagnosis of splenic flexure volvulus. Attempted detorsion during colonoscopy was unsuccessful, and a laparoscopic procedure was performed, and 180° torsion of the splenic flexure with a distal caliber change was observed. After detorsion of the volvulus, the splenic flexure and descending colon were fixed to the peritoneum. The postoperative course was uneventful, and there was no recurrence during the subsequent 16 months of follow-up. Laparoscopic colopexy is a minimally invasive and effective method of managing splenic flexure volvulus, especially in patients without an underlying disease that causes constipation.

• Authors: Mikihiro Inoue, Keiichi Uchida, Kohei Otake, Aya Kawamoto, Yoshiki Okita, Junichiro Hiro, Masaki Ohi, Masato Kusunoki
• Journal: Journal of pediatric surgery (J Pediatr Surg) Vol. 46 Issue 10 Pg. E25-8 (Oct 2011) ISSN: 1531-5037 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 22008358 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Abdominal Pain (etiology)
• Anorexia (etiology)
• Child, Preschool
• Colon, Transverse (diagnostic imaging, surgery)
• Colonoscopy
• Constipation (etiology)
• Female
• Humans
• Intestinal Volvulus (complications, diagnostic imaging, surgery)
• Laparoscopy (methods)
• Tomography, X-Ray Computed
• Vomiting (etiology)