Torsion of abdominal and pelvic organs: A review

Abstract Background Torsion is a rare manifestation of organs of the abdomen and pelvis. It is imperative to address this medical emergency urgently to prevent poor prognosis. Methods A MEDLINE® database search of case report literature was piloted to obtain current information using the query “torsion” and “cotorsion” combined with organs of the abdomen and pelvis. Findings Common diagnostic modalities across all types of organ torsion include ultrasound, explorative laparotomy, and computed tomography. Common surgical techniques for treatment include resection, laparotomy, and detorsion. Understanding the clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of torsion in the spleen, bladder, gallbladder, liver and accessory liver lobe, omentum, ovaries, stomach, large and small bowel, fallopian tubes, appendix, transplanted kidney, testicles and appendix testis, and uterus is essential for the clinician to develop their differential diagnosis in the event they must act appropriately. Conclusion Prompt evaluation of abdominal or pelvic torsion is critical as it may present as a medical emergency requiring urgent surgical intervention to ischemic changes from progressing to gangrene.