Malrotation
Congenital abnormal intestinal rotation that can cause life-threatening midgut volvulus.
Full Definition
Malrotation is a congenital anomaly resulting from abnormal rotation and fixation of the midgut during fetal development, typically occurring between the 6th and 10th weeks of gestation. The condition creates abnormal mesenteric attachments and can lead to catastrophic midgut volvulus, where the entire midgut twists around the superior mesenteric artery, causing bowel ischemia and necrosis. Clinical presentation ranges from chronic symptoms like intermittent vomiting and failure to thrive to acute surgical emergencies. The Ladd procedure, involving detorsion of volvulus, division of Ladd's bands, widening of the mesenteric base, and appendectomy, is the standard surgical treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Often associated with midgut volvulus; requires urgent surgical intervention when presenting acutely.
In Context
- "Upper GI series confirmed malrotation with the duodenojejunal junction in an abnormal position." — radiology report
- "Emergency laparotomy revealed midgut volvulus secondary to malrotation." — operative report