ABSTRACT
Introduction: Colonic volvulus is a common cause of large bowel obstruction with the sigmoid colon most commonly affected. Volvulus of the transverse colon is an uncommon occurrence. Rarer still is a transverse colon volvulus developing after surgery for a sigmoid colon volvulus. Early diagnosis is critical as delay in detection and intervention is associated with the risk of complications – perforation, peritonitis, and death. We report the case of an 86-year-old man who presented with features of large bowel obstruction 14 months following a sigmoid colectomy for a sigmoid colon volvulus.
Conclusion: A metachronous transverse colonic volvulus is uncommon. Pre- operative diagnosis is challenging as there are no defining radiographic features compared to the volvulus of the sigmoid colon with the classical omega sign. Most cases are diagnosed intra-operatively. Bowel resection and anastomosis in a single stage is a safe option.
Keywords: Metachronous, Sigmoid colon, Transverse colon, Volvulus.