Brief Article
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World J Gastroenterol. Aug 14, 2013; 19(30): 4979-4983
Published online Aug 14, 2013. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i30.4979
Appropriate treatment of acute sigmoid volvulus in the emergency setting
Zheng Lou, En-Da Yu, Wei Zhang, Rong-Gui Meng, Li-Qiang Hao, Chuan-Gang Fu
Zheng Lou, En-Da Yu, Wei Zhang, Rong-Gui Meng, Li-Qiang Hao, Chuan-Gang Fu, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai 200433, China
Author contributions: Lou Z, Yu ED, Zhang W, Meng RG, Hao LQ and Fu CG performed the majority of treatment; Lou Z and Yu ED collected clinical data and provided financial support for this work; Lou Z and Yu ED designed the study and wrote the manuscript.
Supported by Changhai Hospital 1255 project Fund, No.CH125542500
Correspondence to: En-Da Yu, Professor, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Changhai Hospital, No. 168 Changhai Road, Shanghai 200433, China. yuenda@126.com
Telephone: +86-21-31161608 Fax: +86-21-31161608
Received: March 30, 2013
Revised: July 4, 2013
Accepted: July 9, 2013
Published online: August 14, 2013
Core Tip

Core tip: Early and correct diagnosis of acute sigmoid volvulus is essential for appropriate treatment aimed at correcting abnormal pathophysiological changes and restoring intestinal transit caused by the volvulus. There is still much debate as to the ideal management of sigmoid volvulus. The results of this study suggest that colonoscopic decompression and derotation is the primary emergency treatment of choice in uncomplicated acute sigmoid volvulus and is a safe treatment modality for recurrent sigmoid volvulus. Emergency surgery is required for patients in whom nonoperative treatment is unsuccessful, or in those with peritonitis, bowel gangrene or perforation.