Emergent laparoscopic reduction of acute gastric volvulus with anterior gastropexy

Abstract

Gastric volvulus is characterized by abnormal rotation of the stomach around an axis made by two fixed portions. Symptoms of gastric volvulus range from anemia and weight loss to severe epigastric or chest pain associated with nonproductive vomiting or upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Ischemia, necrosis, and perforation will occur if this condition remains untreated. We report a case of a 92-year-old patient with acute gastric volvulus treated with laparoscopic reduction and anterior gastropexy. We suggest that the laparoscopic approach to gastric volvulus is safe and feasible and should be considered. High-risk and elderly patients can particularly benefit from minimally invasive access. Anterior gastropexy palliates the symptoms and can be considered a definitive treatment in this patient population.