Extraperitonealization for sigmoid volvulus: a reappraisal.

A prospective study was carried out in a university hospital to evaluate the results of extraperitonealization of the sigmoid colon in non-gangrenous sigmoid volvulus. Eighty-eight patients with non-gangrenous sigmoid volvulus were operated upon using the technique of extraperitonealization of the sigmoid colon. There was no recurrence of the volvulus at 1 to 6 years follow up but 8 patients (9.1%) had constipation and 2 patients (2.2%) had distension of the lower abdomen. Extraperitonealization of the sigmoid colon is a reasonable non-resection alternative for non-gangrenous sigmoid volvulus and has minimal morbidity, mortality and no recurrence in our series.