Ileosigmoid knotting.

PURPOSE

To study the presentation, management, and outcome of patients with ileosigmoid knotting admitted to a district general hospital in an area of relatively high incidence.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 15 patients treated for ileosigmoid knotting at Holy Family Hospital, Berekum, Ghana, during the period 1984 to 1990 inclusive.

RESULTS

The overall mortality was 47 percent and did not differ between those with viable bowel and those with gangrenous bowel. There appeared to be a significant risk of recurrent volvulus in patients who did not undergo resection at initial presentation.

CONCLUSION

Ileosigmoid knotting carries a significant risk of mortality, and sigmoid resection should be considered for all patients with this unusual condition.