by : Juliet Cohen

Volvulus is the condition in which the intestine becomes abnormally twisted. The bowel may become obstructed, and/or the blood supply may become decreased. A volvulus is a problem that can occur after birth as a result of intestinal malrotation. The intestine becomes twisted, causing an intestinal blockage. This twisting can also cut off the blood flow to the intestine, and the intestine can be damaged. Malrotation of the bowel during fetal development may predispose infants to a volvulus, although a volvulus can occur in the absence of malrotation. Volvulus associated with malrotation often occurs early in life.

Malrotation intestinal occurs in a third of the 500 live births in the United States. The majority of children with malrotation develop symptoms in the first year of life. Signs and symptoms may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, blood in the stool. Malrotation occurs equally in boys and girls. However, more boys become symptomatic by the first month of life than girls. Emergency surgery to repair the volvulus is necessary. Children may be started on IV (intravenous) fluids to prevent dehydration and antibiotics to prevent infection. Nutrition may need to be supplemented with long-term, high-calorie IV solutions given through special IV catheters.