Pediatric Sigmoid Volvulus

  • Etiology: sigmoid colon twists on its mesentery, the sigmoid mesocolon.
  • AXR: coffee bean sign
  • Enema: beak
  • Complications: bowel obstruction

Radiology Cases of Sigmoid Volvulus

AXR and enema of sigmoid volvulus
AXR AP (above) shows the colon to be massively dilated throughout its length and there is a suggestion of a ‘bean’ sign in the middle of the abdomen. Early (below left) and later (below right) lateral images from an enema shows an inability to opacify the entire colon with contrast and the presence of a beak sign in the sigmoid colon.