Management of sigmoid volvulus in Polokwane-Mankweng Hospital.

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of treatment of patients with sigmoid volvulus in the Polokwane-Mankweng Hospital and to identify the best management options for these patients.

Methods: A retrospective study was undertaken of 85 patients with sigmoid volvulus treated in Polokwane-Mankweng Hospital during the period July 1997-May 2004.

Results: In total, 85 patients were evaluated (77 males and 8 females, male/female ratio 9:1).

Ultrasonographic demonstration of intussusception in the acute abdomen in a Zambian infant.

Ultrasonography demonstrated intussusception in a healthy and well nourished seven-month-old infant who presented with a four-day history of vomiting and abdominal pain. Plain film showed a right-sided abdominal mass, a paucity of gas within the right lower quadrant and loops of distended small bowel. This led to ultrasonography of the gastrointestinal tract that demonstrated typical "bull's eye" pattern within the intussusception process.