Rev Med Chil. 2025 Sep;153(9):662-666. doi: 10.4067/s0034-98872025000900662. Epub 2025 Sep 2.
ABSTRACT
Intestinal obstruction (IO) during pregnancy is a rare and serious complication, with sigmoid volvulus (SV) being the most common cause. We present the case of a 28-year-old primigravida at 33+4 weeks of gestation who presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and four days of no bowel movements. IO was diagnosed via computed tomography. A cesarean section was performed, followed by a sigmoidectomy and rectosigmoid anastomosis for ischemic SV. Both the mother and newborn had favorable outcomes. Diagnosing SV in pregnancy is challenging due to symptom overlap with normal pregnancy. Imaging is crucial for timely diagnosis, though radiation exposure must be carefully considered. Prompt management is essential to reduce maternal and fetal mortality, which can reach 50% in cases complicated by perforation.
PMID:41021849 | DOI:10.4067/s0034-98872025000900662
