volvulus (caecal)
Last reviewed 01/2018
A caecal volvulus occurs when there is twisting of the bowel at the caecum and resultant intestinal obstruction.
Torsion occurs in individuals who have a mesentery to the caecum and ascending colon; a twist at this site causes the ileum to wrap around the ascending colon. Distention of the caecum ensues to the extent that the volvulus can be felt as a palpable mass. The patient may have vomiting, abdominal pain and constipation.
The classical radiological appearance of this condition is the 'comma' sign - there is a gas-filled ileum and caecum.
Treatment is by decompression and resection, or fixing of the caecum to the posterior abdominal wall.