A twisting of the bowel with obstruction and variable loss of blood supply. Volvulus is a condition in which the bowel becomes twisted. Malrotation of the bowel during fetal development may predispose infants to volvulus, although a volvulus can occur in the absence of malrotation. Volvulus often occurs early in life, frequently in the first year. Infants develop sudden onset signs of bowel obstruction that may include nausea and vomiting , bloody stools, abdominal pain , constipation , and shock .
Symptoms are generally dramatic enough that infants are taken early to the emergency room.
A stool guaiac is positive for blood in the stool . An upper GI X-ray with small bowel follow through shows malrotation or midgut volvulus. All Rights Reserved. All rights reserved. The information contained above is intended for general reference purposes only.