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INTRODUCTION:The sigmoid volvulus is a common cause of intestinal obstruction in Andean regions, it can progress toward bowel necrosis or perforation. Early diagnosis and severeness of intestinal ischemia have direct influence on morbidity and mortality of patients. There is lack of information regarding how this pathology is managed in our country.
METHODS:Observational, descriptive, retrospective study from 2013 to 2018, in which epidemiological and clinical characteristics, laboratory exams, management and post-operative evolution were evaluated.
RESULTS: 52 patients were studied, 63.5% of which were older than 60 and 73.1% were male. 32.7% came from Comarca areas (indigenous reservations). Evolution time that ranged from 1 to 3 days was found in 55.8%, with clinical manifestationssuch as abdominal pain, vomiting and abdominal distention. The coffee-bean sign was present in 84.6% of cases. Initial management was endoscopic in 53.6% and 46.2% of cases required urgent laparotomy. Every patient was operated and they all received sigmoid colon resections from which 63.5% were a Hartman procedure. Only one fatality, 1.9%, was reported.
CONCLUSION:Sigmoid volvulus represented 10.4% of causes of intestinal obstruction; it is most frequent in males over 60 years old and those from Comarcaregions (indigenous reservations). The initial management was endoscopic and those who required intervention received a sigmoid colon resection; the Hartman procedure was the most frequent.
