Volvulus is a twisting of a loop of intestine or, rarely, of the stomach. It is a serious condition that causes obstruction of the passage of intestinal contents. Volvulus also carries the risk of strangulation, in which the blood supply to the affected area of the gastrointestinal tract is cut off.
This blockage may lead to gangrene (death of tissues) in that area, which is potentially fatal.
Volvulus may be present at birth or may result from adhesions (areas of scar tissue) binding together loops of intestine or portions of the stomach.
The main symptoms of volvulus are severe episodes of painful abdominal cramps followed by vomiting. The abdomen is tense (hard) and often bloated, and there is frequently constipation. Volvulus usually requires emergency surgical treatment to untwist the intestine.