Sigmoid volvulus-Can CT features predict outcomes and recurrence?

Objectives: Sigmoid volvulus (SV) is a common cause of bowel obstruction, especially in older patients. SV can be mesenteroaxial (M-SV) or organoaxial (O-SV). The purpose of this study was to assess if CT findings in SV are associated with clinical outcomes. including recurrence, choice of management, and mortality.

Materials and methods: This study includes patients with SV and a CT within 24 hours of presentation. CT features, including mesenteraoxial/organoaxial arrangement, direction of rotation, transition points, distension, whirl-sign, ischemia, and perforation were determined. Demographics, treatment, recurrence, and outcome data were recorded.

Results: One hundred and seventeen cases were diagnosed in 80 patients (54 male). The mean age was 70 years (± 17.1). M-SV and O-SV were equally prevalent (n = 39 vs. n = 41, respectively). M-SV was significantly more common with anticlockwise rotation in the axial plane (p = 0.028) and clockwise rotation in the coronal plane (p = 0.015). All patients with imaging features of ischemia underwent surgery (n = 6). There was no significant difference in outcome variables (30-day mortality, 30-day readmission, recurrence) between the O-SV and M-SV groups. The degree of bowel distension on initial presentation was a significant predictor of recurrence, with ≥ 9 cm vs < 9 cm associated with an increased odds of any recurrence (OR: 3.23; 95%CI: 1.39-7.92).

Conclusion: In SV, sigmoid distension of more than 9 cm at baseline CT was associated with an increased risk of recurrence. Imaging features of ischemia predicted surgical over endoscopic intervention. Organoaxial and mesenteroaxial SV had similar prevalence, but the type of volvulus was not associated with clinical outcomes or choice of management.

Clinical relevance statement: There is a risk of recurrent sigmoid volvulus with colonic distension greater than 9 cm. This work, comparing volvulus subtypes, shows that this finding at the initial presentation could expedite consideration for surgical management.

Key points: Reports of outcomes for different subtypes and rotational directions of volvuli have been contradictory. No difference in measured outcomes was found between subtypes; distension ≥ 9 cm predicted recurrence. CT features can aide management of sigmoid volvulus and can prompt surgical intervention.