Late-onset volvulus without malrotation in preterm infants.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to report a new observation of late-onset volvulus without malrotation (VWM) in preterm infants.


METHODS
The study used medical note review of infants with VWM identified at a single regional centre between 1996 and 2007.


RESULTS
Ten patients were identified. Group 1 includes 4 patients (gestation, 28-38 weeks; median, 32) who presented within 4 days of age (range, 1-4; median, 3). Group 2 includes 6 patients (gestation, 25-33 weeks; median, 27), who presented later (range, 22-57 days; median, 45). Characteristics of group 2 patients included recurrent episodes of abdominal distension and bile vomiting (6/6), long-term continuous positive airway pressure requirement (5/6), and sudden, severe deterioration with acute abdominal signs (6/6). Small bowel volvulus was found at laparotomy requiring resection (30%-70% of total small bowel) and either primary anastomosis (4) or stoma formation (2). All babies survived.


CONCLUSIONS
There appear to be 2 clinical groups with VWM-one presenting within the first few days of life and the other presenting after the first month of life associated with a specific clinical history. This latter group has not been described before.
Drewett
Melanie
M
Neonatal Surgical Service, Department of Neonatal Medicine and Surgery, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom.
Burge
David M
DM
D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007235:Infant, Premature, Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D045822:Intestinal Volvulus / Q000175:diagnosis*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors