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Colonic Volvulus
Colonic volvulus occurs when the large intestine twists on itself, blocking stool and blood flow. Common in the sigmoid colon, this condition demands prompt diagnosis and treatment. In Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs provides expert care to restore health.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Ongoing constipation or long-term laxative use
Enlarged colon due to prior surgery or illness
Age over 60
Nerve or brain disorders that slow digestion
High-fiber diet without adequate water intake
Signs and Symptoms
Sharp abdominal (belly) pain
Swollen or bloated stomach
Nausea and vomiting
Inability to pass gas or stool
Cramping that worsens over time
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Colonic Volvulus?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews the onset and location of abdominal pain (including any epigastric discomfort), bowel-movement patterns, prior surgeries, chronic constipation or laxative use, and other risk factors.
Abdominal X-Ray
Plain films look for the classic “coffee-bean” sign, assess bowel gas patterns, and screen for free air under the diaphragm.
CT Scan
Cross-sectional imaging confirms the twist, evaluates bowel wall thickness and blood flow, and rules out other causes of acute abdomen.
Contrast Enema
If further clarification is needed, a water-soluble contrast enema outlines the colon and demonstrates the “bird's beak” narrowing at the point of torsion.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for colonic volvulus.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Increase your daily water intake (at least 8 cups) to ease stool passage
Eat small, frequent meals to reduce abdominal pressure
Choose soft, easy-to-digest vegetables and low-residue foods
Avoid gas-forming or highly fibrous foods without adequate hydration
2. Medications
Stool softeners to promote gentle, trouble-free bowel movements
Targeted laxatives used under Dr. Nguyen's supervision
Prescription pain relievers for comfort during recovery
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic detorsion for non-surgical untwisting of the colon
Laparoscopic surgery—small incisions for faster healing and less pain
Colon resection to remove damaged or repeatedly twisting segments
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
How urgent is treatment for colonic volvulus?
Treatment must begin promptly to prevent blood flow loss and tissue damage. Delays can lead to emergency surgery and higher complication rates.
Can diet changes prevent sigmoid volvulus?
A high-fiber diet with adequate hydration supports regular bowel movements, but anatomical predisposition can still cause volvulus despite dietary measures.
What is the usual recovery time?
After endoscopic detorsion, most patients go home within 1-2 days. Laparoscopic or open surgery typically requires 3-7 days in the hospital and several weeks for full recovery.
Are the procedures risky?
All interventions carry some risk, but minimally invasive endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques have lower complication rates and faster healing compared to open surgery.
Can volvulus happen again?
Yes. Recurrence is possible. Dr. Nguyen monitors your progress and may recommend surgery to remove the problematic segment if volvulus returns.
Do I need follow-up care?
Yes. Regular follow-up visits, imaging studies, and ongoing dietary guidance help ensure your colon remains healthy and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Is treatment covered by insurance?
Most major insurance plans cover diagnosis and treatment for colonic volvulus. Our team at GastroDoxs will verify your benefits and assist with any preauthorization.
