In-utero segmental volvulus around vitellointestinal duct remnants leading to ileal atresia and stenosis: A case series

Abstract

Background: The etiology of intestinal atresia is multifactorial with vascular accidents being the most common event in its development. In-utero volvulus is a well-known type of vascular accident leading to intestinal atresia. Segmental volvulus around vitellointestinal duct remnants is rarely described vascular accident leading to ileal atresia. Case Series: We report two cases of segmental ileal volvulus around vitellointestinal duct remnants in neonates leading to ileal atresia in one case and intestinal stenosis in the other one. Both neonates presented with signs of neonatal intestinal obstruction. X-ray abdomen performed in both neonates showed air-fluid levels. Both neonates were operated with suspicion of intestinal atresia. At surgery, a segment of the small bowel was found twisted around vitellointestinal duct remnants in both cases. The first case also had intestinal atresia whereas the second one had intestinal stenosis secondary to the segmental volvulus. Conclusion: Segmental volvulus around vitellointestinal duct remnants can also cause ileal atresia or stenosis.

Keywords

• Volvulus
• Ileal atresia
• Vitellointestinal duct
• Meckel’s diverticulum
• Ileal stenosis