Abstract

Sigmoid volvulus (SV) and its natural history have been recognized by physicians and surgeons since ancient Egypt times. The Papyrus Ebers mentioned that volvulus should reduce immediately or the sigmoid “colon rotted”. Colonic volvulus accounts for 1-7% of cases of large bowel obstruction in the United States and Western Europe. It generally common in elderly patients with multiple co morbidities especially neurologic conditions. Sigmoid volvulus, if complicated carries a high risk of mortality and morbidity, hence low threshold and early detection is essential.1–3 This report describes an unusual case of a very large gangrenous sigmoid volvulus in a 29 years old, young and healthy lady which undergoes traditional massage.

Keywords

Sigmoid volvulus, massage, laparotomy, imaging, X-ray, ovarian cyst, abdominal pain, distended, hypovolemic shock, fluid-electrolyte imbalance, nasogastric aspiration, parenteral feeding, barium enemas, rigid sigmoidoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy