Synchronous volvulus of the transverse and sigmoid colon: a rare case of large bowel obstruction

Abstract

Colonic volvulus usually occurs as a single event that can affect various parts of the colon. The usual sites affected being the sigmoid colon (75%) and the caecum (22%). The phenomenon of multiple sites simultaneously undergoing volvulus is an extremely rare occurrence. We report a rare case of simultaneous sigmoid and transverse colon volvulus in a 52-year-old female. The clinical presentation and the radiological findings were that of large bowel obstruction. A subtotal colectomy and colocolic anastomosis were performed and the postoperative period was uneventful. Though rare the development of transverse and sigmoid volvulus in the same patient must always be considered in the differential diagnosis, when dealing with recurrent intermittent abdominal pain or acute intestinal obstruction.