Sigmoid volvulus occurs usually in elderly, constipated patients, and in men more than in women - male to female ratio of approximately 4 to 1.
This condition accounts for about 2% of intestinal obstructions in the UK. However, it is much more common in Russia and Central Africa.
There is usually twisting of the sigmoid colon in an anti-clockwise direction from one-half to three turns.
Bowel gangrene results following ischaemic tissue death of the strangulated bowel tissue if the condition is left untreated. This in turn results in peritonitis and possible generalised sepsis.
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