Sigmoid Volvulus
It is an intestinal defect that affects the pelvic or sigmoid colon. This colon belongs to the large intestine, and it lies close to the rectum and anus. It is an S-shaped loop-like structure. The sigmoid colon volvulus is the main cause of constipation and bowel obstruction. This condition is common in the older population and in males. People taking excessive purgatives/laxatives are prone to sigmoid volvulus.
Volvulus is a kind of intestinal twist. In sigmoid volvulus, the twist is mostly in an anticlockwise direction. Absolute constipation and severe abdominal pain are the onsets of this volvulus. Its signs and symptoms are somewhat similar to peritonitis.
Sigmoidoscopy
It is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the large intestine. The examination starts from the rectum and leads through the sigmoid colon. It either uses a rigid device or a flexible endoscope. Sometimes, small inflammations can be removed by a piercing instrument placed in the scope.
Cecal Volvulus
Cecal volvulus is the second most common volvulus in adults after sigmoid. It is a torsion in the cecum of the large intestine. The cecum is the initial portion of the large intestine that is found within the peritoneum.
Cecal volvulus also results in bowel obstruction. If unattended, it can lead to faecal peritonitis and bowel perforation. In most cases, the cecum twists along with the ileum. The symptoms include vomiting, abdominal swelling and abdominal pain.
Difference between Sigmoid and Cecal Volvulus
Sigmoid Volvulus |
Cecal Volvulus |
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It is a torsion in the sigmoid colon present in the large intestine. |
It is a torsion in the cecum present in the large intestine. |
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It arises in the left lower portion of the intestine. |
It arises in the right lower portion of the intestine. |
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It is correlated with large bowel dilation. |
It is correlated with small bowel dilation. |
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It mostly affects the older population. |
It mostly affects younger patients. Also, it is the second most common volvulus in adults after sigmoid. |
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Initial examination and treatment include sigmoidoscopy. |
Detorsion of the cecum is done by a procedure called cecopexy. |
Also Read: Difference between Small Intestine and Large Intestine
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Sigmoid and Cecal Volvulus
What is volvulus?
When an intestinal loop twists around the supporting mesentery or twists around itself, it can lead to a condition called volvulus. Volvulus usually results in bowel obstruction.
What is peritonitis?
Inflammation in the peritoneum (abdominal lining), inner abdomen or abdominal organs is termed peritonitis. Any gastrointestinal perforation, cirrhosis, pancreatitis and appendicitis can cause peritonitis.
What is gastric volvulus?
The twisting of a part or whole of the stomach by more than 180° is called volvulus of the stomach or gastric volvulus. It obstructs the flow of substances in and out of the stomach.
Explore: Digestive Disorders – Causes, Symptoms and Prevention
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