Comprehensive Review: Acute Esophageal Necrosis in the Setting of Gastric Volvulus

Abstract

Background and aims: Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) in the setting of gastric volvulus is a rare condition with only a handful of cases reported. Volvulus may contribute to AEN by limiting tissue perfusion and promoting massive reflux of gastric contents on compromised esophageal mucosa.

Methods: We reviewed 225 original articles, literature reviews, case series, brief reports, case reports, and discuss six total cases of co-occurring esophageal necrosis and gastric volvulus.

Results and conclusions: We present the first comprehensive analysis of all reported cases in the literature to date and formulate management strategies for the co-occurrence of AEN and volvulus. Management of AEN should be directed at correcting underlying medical conditions, providing hemodynamic support, initiating nil-per-os restriction, and administering high-dose proton pump inhibitor therapy. Surgical intervention is typically reserved for cases of esophageal perforation with mediastinitis and abscess formation.

Keywords: Acute esophageal necrosis; Black esophagus; Esophageal necrosis; Gastric volvulus.