Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
volvulus
Pronunciation: VOL-vyə-ləs
Abnormal twisting of a portion of the gastrointestinal tract around its mesentery. Causes bowel obstruction and potential ischemia requiring emergency surgery.
Full Definition
A pathological condition in which a loop of intestine twists around itself and its mesentery, creating a closed-loop obstruction that can compromise blood supply to the affected bowel segment. Common sites include the sigmoid colon, cecum, and small bowel. The condition often requires emergency surgical intervention to prevent bowel necrosis and perforation. In medical documentation, volvulus represents a surgical emergency with high morbidity if treatment is delayed.
Usage
Usage note: Plural form is 'volvuli' though 'volvuluses' is acceptable in clinical writing.
In Context
- "CT imaging demonstrated sigmoid volvulus with signs of impending bowel compromise." — Radiology report
- "Emergency surgery was performed for cecal volvulus with successful detorsion and cecopexy." — Operative note
Also known as
intestinal twist
bowel twist
Don't confuse with
intussusception
bowel obstruction