Volvulus of intestine

Volvulus refers to the twisting of a segment of intestinal loop along the longitudinal axis of its mesentery by more than 180 degrees, either clockwise or counterclockwise, causing complete or partial occlusion of the bowel at both ends of the twist, resulting in closed-loop intestinal obstruction and compression of mesenteric vessels. Volvulus is a type of strangulated intestinal obstruction. The twisted bowel rapidly undergoes necrosis, perforation, and peritonitis, making it a dangerous and rapidly progressive type of intestinal obstruction. If not treated promptly, the mortality rate is high (10%-33%). Volvulus is a common cause of acute intestinal obstruction. In China, it ranks third, accounting for approximately 14% of intestinal obstructions. The incidence of volvulus is region-related, being more common in Eastern Europe, Russia, Central Asia, and Africa. In Western Europe and the United States, volvulus is relatively rare, accounting for less than 10% of intestinal obstructions. In China, small intestinal volvulus is more common than colonic volvulus.