Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Volvulus other imaging findings
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Barium enema may be helpful in the diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus. In some instances, barium enema may be able to reduce sigmoid volvulus. Findings on barium enema suggestive of sigmoid volvulus include a twisted tapering known as a bird beak configuration. Barium study is contraindicated in the presence of necrotic bowel or pneumoperitoneum.
Other Imaging Findings
Other Imaging Findings
- Barium enema may be helpful in the diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus in conjunction with plain radiography.[1]
- Findings on barium enema suggestive of sigmoid volvulus include a bird’s beak appearance representing the dilated area of bowel proximal to the obstruction.
- There is a high risk for perforation and peritonitis, so the enema is performed under fluoroscopic guidance.
- Barium study is contraindicated in the presence of necrotic bowel or pneumoperitoneum.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1];Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Hadeel Maksoud M.D.[2]