Mesenteroaxial Gastric Volvulus Complicated by Gastric Ischemia in Adulthood

Abstract

Mesenteroaxial gastric volvulus is a rare condition characterized by anomalous rotation of the stomach on its shortest axis potentially resulting in gastric outlet obstruction; if management is delayed, it can result in significant morbidity and mortality.

We describe the clinical case of a 30-year-old woman who presented with symptoms/signs suggestive of gastrointestinal obstruction with onset in the previous day, associated with significant elevation of blood lactate levels. Abdominal and pelvic CT revealed significant distension and anomalous position of the stomach with spatial inversion of the positions of the esophagogastric junction and the gastric antrum/ pylorus, as well as gastric pneumatosis and portal venous gas. Considering these findings, a diagnosis of mesenteroaxial gastric volvulus complicated by gastric ischemia was suggested. Exploratory surgery confirmed the diagnosis and the patient underwent total gastrectomy.