History

History

In ileocaecal volvulus the patient often describes a longstand ing history of intermittent, colicky abdominal pain associated with distension and vomiting. In between episodes (when the volvulus has detorted) the patient is entirely asymptomatic and repeated CT and endoscopic examinations are normal. The clinical pictur e is similar to that of irritable bowel syndrome. Sigmoid volvulus occurs mainly in the elderly as the intes tine and mesentery continue to lengthen throughout life.