Intestinal obstruction in pregnancy with reverse rotation of the midgut: A case report

BACKGROUND: Reverse rotation of the midgut is a rare type of intestinal malrotation. Volvulus of the right colon or entire midgut, stenosis of the transverse colon and obstruction of the duodenojejunal junction are common complications of reverse rotation. In this study, we report the first case of intestinal obstruction associated with reverse rotation in pregnancy. CASE SUMMARY: A 31-year-old woman at 36(+2) wk gestation presented to the emergency department with progressive abdominal cramping, nausea and bilious vomiting. Abdominal ultrasound scanning showed dilatation of the bowel. Computed tomography scanning revealed features of reverse rotation of the midgut with intestinal volvulus. After consultation with the obstetrician, the pregnancy was terminated and exploratory abdominal surgery was performed. Intra-operatively, it was found that the mesentery of the colon and small intestine was insufficiently attached. The right colon and the small intestinal mesentery was twisted, and intestinal necrosis was observed. The duodenum and duodenojejunal junction were curved in front of the transverse colon, and the transverse colon passed through the tunnel behind the mesenteric root. Intestinal reverse rotation with volvulus was confirmed. The ‌necrotic intestine was resected and small intestine mesenteric reconstruction was performed. The patient recovered after surgery. After leaving the hospital, the patient and her daughter remained well during an 8-month follow-up period. CONCLUSION: We report the diagnosis, treatment and etiology of a pregnant patient with intestinal obstruction due to reverse rotation of the midgut. For similar cases, appropriate diagnosis and treatment should be carried out according to the condition of the fetus and pregnant woman.