Learning About Volvulus in Infants
What is volvulus?
Volvulus is a twisting of the intestine. It can happen in a baby when the intestine isn't in the right place (malrotation) in the belly.
Volvulus is an emergency. The twisting of the intestine can cut off blood flow and lead to death of the tissue. It can make your baby very sick, very quickly. Your baby will need surgery right away.
What are the symptoms?
If your baby has volvulus, your baby may seem fussy at first but can get very sick quickly. Symptoms include:
- Belly pain.
- Green vomit.
- A swollen belly.
- No stools, or bloody stools.
How is volvulus treated?
Volvulus is treated with surgery. The doctor untwists the intestine and removes any part of it that has died. The healthy ends of the intestine are sewn back together. In some cases a second surgery is needed within 1 or 2 days.
Your baby will probably be in the hospital for several days after the surgery.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Current as of: March 22, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Jennifer Merchant MD - Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
