Concurrent sigmoid volvulus and herniation through broad ligament defect during pregnancy: case report and literature review

Abstract

Sigmoid volvulus in pregnancy is a rare complication. The combination of sigmoid volvulus and sigmoid herniation through a broad ligament together with placental abruption in pregnancy is a most unusual obstetrical emergency. We report the case of a previously well 32-year-old Mexican woman who was transferred to our institution at 28 weeks gestation with threatened preterm labor. We considered the possibility of appendicitis. While awaiting a surgical consult, an emergency cesarean section was carried out for a prolonged deceleration of the fetal heart. A routine transverse suprapubic abdominal entry revealed a large loop of ischemic bowel. This was confirmed to be a sigmoid volvulus which had herniated through a left broad ligament defect. The deceleration was attributed to a large placental abruption. No previous case with a combination of a sigmoid volvulus and placental abruption was found in the literature.