The whirl sign: a non-specific finding of mesenteric rotation.
The whirl sign has been described as a computed tomography (CT) finding of volvulus of the gut. Six cases are presented with a range of clinical diagnoses (a volvulus, adhesive obstruction with volvulus and previous left hemicolectomy, adhesions alone, transverse colectomy, and right hemicolectomy). All demonstrated a whirl sign. A further case simulating a whirl sign is also presented. We propose that the whirl sign, although a finding highly suggestive of volvulus, can occur in any situation that produces rotation or twisting of bowel and its mesenteric attachment.
Blake
M P
MP
Department of Radiology, Royal Perth Hospital, Western Australia.
Mendelson
R M
RM
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007415:Intestinal Obstruction / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D007421:Intestine, Small / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008643:Mesentery / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010532:Peritoneal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed