RESECTION AND PRIMARY ANASTOMOSIS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE SIGMOID VOLVULUS

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the results of resection and primary anastomosis in acute sigmoid volvulus with viable gut. Design & Duration: Prospective case series from Feb. 2002 to March 2008. Setting: Surgical Departments of District Headquarter Hospital at Abbottabad and Battagram, and AHQ Hospital at Ghallanai (Mohmand Agency). Patients: Sixty three patients with acute sigmoid volvulus with viable intestine. Methodology: All the patients underwent emergency resection and primary anastomosis, without mechanical bowel preparation. Results: Amongst the 63 patients, there were 58 males and only five females with ages ranging from 38 to 62 years (mean 56.8 years). The time between onset of symptoms and presentation to the emergency department ranged from 14-72 hours (mean 18.2 hours). There was no mortality or anastomotic leakage, but 12(19%) cases developed wound infection and one wound dehiscence. Conclusion: Resection and primary anastomosis in acute sigmoid volvulus with viable gut is a safe and cost effective, single stage procedure in emergency.