Work

Recurrent Sigmoid Volvulus in a Young Female With Ulcerative Colitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is extremely rare in young patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). We report a 20-year-old female with UC presenting with recurrent SV without traditional risk factors. Computed tomography (CT) confirmed the diagnosis with a "whirl sign." The patient underwent definitive robotic-assisted anterior resection with inferior mesenteric vessel preservation. Notably, the site of torsion corresponded to the segment most severely affected by UC, suggesting a localized inflammatory mechanism contributing to volvulus formation. This case highlights a potential pathophysiological link between chronic inflammation and colonic torsion, possibly involving neuroinflammatory changes. Clinicians should consider recurrent SV in young UC patients as a potential indicator of segmental motility dysfunction and evaluate the need for definitive surgical management.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.107089

Authors: Hung-Ming Huang, Yu-Ru Lai, Yu-Chun Yeh, Cheng-Wei Huang

Institutions: China Medical University, China Medical University Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Intestinal Malrotation and Obstruction Disorders

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W7154514040