PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Machado, Norman O.
AU  - Chopra, Pradeep J.
AU  - Subramanian, Sureshkannan K.
TI  - Splenic flexure volvulus presenting with gangrene
DP  - 2009 May 01
TA  - Saudi Medical Journal
PG  - 708--711
VI  - 30
IP  - 5
4099  - http://smj.org.sa/content/30/5/708.short
4100  - http://smj.org.sa/content/30/5/708.full
SO  - Saudi Med J2009 May 01; 30
AB  - Volvulus of the splenic flexure is very rare cause of colonic obstruction constituting 2% of cases of colonic segmental volvulus. Primary splenic flexure volvulus (SFV) is due to congenital absence or laxity of the phrenocolic, gastro colic, and splenocolic ligaments while secondary volvulus is due to other causes including some prior surgery releasing these ligaments. A preoperative diagnosis can be established based on the characteristic radiological findings on plain x-ray abdomen and CT scan. We present a case of SFV in a young man who presented with acute abdominal pain, and distension, and illustrate the usefulness of CT scan, and plain x-ray of the abdomen in making a preoperative diagnosis. Laparotomy revealed a gangrenous SFV, which was resected and primary anastomosis was carried out. Literature is reviewed with regards to predisposing factors, presentation, investigation, and management among the more than 32 cases reported so far.