In-utero intestinal volvulus is a rare but potential life threatening foetal complications. It is a surgical emergency and delay in diagnosis or treatment can increase the morbidity and mortality to the foetus. We report a case of mild foetal bowel dilatation diagnosed at 21 weeks of gestation. She was closely follow up and at 31 weeks of gestation, in-utero intestinal volvulus was diagnosed with the characteristic 'whirlpool' sign on ultrasound examination. This case emphasises the importance of early recognition and quick decision to delivery when intestinal volvulus is diagnosed. This enabled early surgical intervention to prevent further foetal morbidity.
Incomplete intestinal fixation or malrotation of gut with midgut volvulus is one of the important causes of bilious vomiting in neonates. The incidence of malrotation of gut in population is 4% and that of duplication cyst is 1:4500. Patients with malrotation are prone to develop midgut volvulus due to their narrow mesenteric base demanding urgent surgical intervention. Common associated anomalies are intrinsic duodenal obstruction, internal hernias, caecal volvulus, anorectal malformations and Hirschsprung's disease. The present case refers to a 4-day-old neonate who presented with malrotation of gut with reverse volvulus and an associated gastrointestinal duplication cyst, which is a rare association with only few reported case reports. After imaging with ultrasound and contrast radiograph, the baby underwent prompt surgical intervention in the form of Ladd's procedure with resection and anastomosis of jejunal duplication cyst.