SIGMOID VOLVULUS IN CHILDREN

Abstract

Sigmoid volvulus is reported in a 2 year old boy in whom an attempt at hydrostatic reduction under fluoroscopic control failed, necessitating surgical reduction. The diagnosis was established preoperatively by roentgen signs, the most important of which was the deformity of the barium column in the proximal limb of the volvulus. The term "twisted taper sign" is suggested as a more descriptive alternative to older terms applied to the mesosigmoid and axial torsion. Proximal limb sigmoid obstruction is characteristic of sigmoid volvulus in children, in contrast to the typical distal limb sigmoid obstruction in adults.