Intestinal Malrotation and Volvulus

Intestinal malrotation is a congenital abnormal position of the bowel within the peritoneal cavity secondary to an arrest of normal rotation of any part of the intestinal tract during the first trimester of embryonic development. Malrotation is accompanied by abnormal bowel fixation, resulting in a narrow-based attachment of the mesentery and the presence of abnormal peritoneal bands (Ladd’s bands). These abnormalities lead to increased risks of bowel obstruction and midgut volvulus. Malrotation with volvulus is a true life-threatening emergency; delayed diagnosis can lead to necrosis of the midgut.