Sigmoid, cecal and transverse colon volvulus have been responsible for approximately 3% of all large bowel obstruction in the United States. Transverse colon volvulus is much less frequent, occurring in less than 4% of all reported cases of colonic torsion. In the pediatric age group a review of the literature revealed seven cases only, to which we are able to add an eighth. Predisposing abnormalities implicated in the etiology of volvulus of the transverse colon include a redundant transverse colon, an elongated mesentery and close attachment or lack of fixation of the proximal and distal transverse colon. Chronic constipation and mental retardation are associated with this condition. The treatment is surgical intervention to untwist the volvulus and resect the redundant and often nonviable colon with primary colocolostomy or end-colostomy and mucous fistula as indicated.
Laparoscopic bowel surgery is a recent application of minimally invasive videoscopic techniques. Understanding the anatomy and physiology of the bowel, the background of bowel disorders and their treatment, signs and symptoms of bowel disease, and the patient selection process can help perioperative nurses better care for patients diagnosed with colon polyps, diverticulitis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Laparoscopic approach to paraesophageal hernia repair is a recent application of minimally invasive videoscopic surgery. Procedures such as paraesophageal hernia repair with Nissen fundoplication that previously could only be performed as open techniques now can be performed laparoscopically. Laparoscopic approach of this major surgical repair benefits patients because of the reduced surgical time, decreased length of hospital stay, reduced hospital costs, and a reduction in loss of work time.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.