Abnormal twisting of a portion of the intestines that can impair blood flow is called what?

Abnormal twisting of a portion of the intestines that can impair blood flow is called what?

• A. Volvulus
• B. Intussusception
• C. Hernia
• D. Torsion

Answer: (A)

Twisting of a loop of bowel around its own mesentery is volvulus. This abnormal rotation obstructs the intestinal lumen and also compresses the mesenteric vessels, first hindering venous drainage and then arterial inflow, which can rapidly lead to bowel ischemia and potential necrosis if not treated promptly. The scenario described in the question fits volvulus because the defining feature is twisting with a risk to blood flow. Intussusception would involve one segment of bowel telescoping into another, creating a different obstruction mechanism and characteristic imaging signs. A hernia means bowel protrudes through a defect in the abdominal wall or pelvis, which causes obstruction but not twisting around the mesentery. Torsion is a more general term for twisting and is used for organs like the ovary or testis; when discussing the intestines, volvulus is the specific and correct term for twisting around the mesentery causing vascular compromise.

Twisting of a loop of bowel around its own mesentery is volvulus. This abnormal rotation obstructs the intestinal lumen and also compresses the mesenteric vessels, first hindering venous drainage and then arterial inflow, which can rapidly lead to bowel ischemia and potential necrosis if not treated promptly. The scenario described in the question fits volvulus because the defining feature is twisting with a risk to blood flow.

Intussusception would involve one segment of bowel telescoping into another, creating a different obstruction mechanism and characteristic imaging signs. A hernia means bowel protrudes through a defect in the abdominal wall or pelvis, which causes obstruction but not twisting around the mesentery. Torsion is a more general term for twisting and is used for organs like the ovary or testis; when discussing the intestines, volvulus is the specific and correct term for twisting around the mesentery causing vascular compromise.