Elective Single-incision Laparoscopy-assisted Sigmoid Colectomy for Recurrent Volvulus of the Sigmoid Colon ―Report of Two Cases―

Abstract

We present a report of two patients with recurrent volvulus of the sigmoid colon who were treated by single-incision laparoscopy-assisted sigmoid colectomy after endoscopic decompression. (Case 1) A 74-year-old man presented to us with a history of abdominal pain. Based on the findings of physical examination, plain X-ray of the abdomen, and abdominal computed tomography (CT), the patient was diagnosed as having volvulus of the sigmoid colon. Endoscopic reduction was performed successfully. Subsequently, 6 and 11 months later, the patient presented to us again complaining of abdominal pain. Thereafter, based on the diagnosis of recurrent volvulus of the sigmoid colon, we performed single-incision laparoscopic-assisted sigmoid colectomy. The patient was discharged from the hospital 9 days after the operation, after an uneventful postoperative course. (Case 2) An 86-year-old woman presented to us complaining of abdominal pain. Based on the findings of physical examination, plain X-ray of the abdomen, and abdominal CT, she was diagnosed as having volvulus of the sigmoid colon. Endoscopic reduction was performed successfully. Subsequently the patient presented to us again 3 months later complaining of abdominal pain. Based on the diagnosis of recurrent volvulus of the sigmoid colon, we performed single-incision laparoscopic-assisted sigmoid colectomy. The patient was discharged from our hospital 13 days after the operation, after an uneventful postoperative course. Single-incision laparoscopy-assisted surgery for patients with recurrent volvulus of the sigmoid colon after endoscopic decompression is safe and feasible, and therefore, a valid therapeutic option.