Overview
Gastric volvulus is a rare condition characterized by the twisting of the stomach along its axis, often leading to acute abdominal pain, vomiting, and potential gastric necrosis if untreated. It can occur in conjunction with gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) 1.Diagnosis
Clinical Presentation: Episodic colicky abdominal pain, non-bilious vomiting, upper abdominal distension, haematemesis, and failure to thrive 1.
Imaging: Upper GI series or CT scan often confirms the diagnosis by visualizing the twisted stomach 1.
Laboratory Tests: Not specifically highlighted; typically supportive in ruling out other conditions 1.Management
Surgical Intervention: Anterior gastropexy is curative 1.
Conservative Management: Management of associated gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) with medical therapy 1.Special Populations
Pediatrics: Common in neurologically normal children aged 2 to 24 months 1.Key Recommendations
Perform imaging (upper GI series or CT scan) for definitive diagnosis of gastric volvulus 1.
Consider anterior gastropexy as the primary surgical intervention for definitive treatment 1 (Evidence: Strong).
Manage associated gastro-oesophageal reflux conservatively alongside surgical correction 1 (Evidence: Moderate).References
1 Samuel M, Burge DM, Griffiths DM. Gastric volvulus and associated gastro-oesophageal reflux. Archives of disease in childhood 1995. link