Although the intestines may seem like a jumbled group of tubing in the abdomen, they must actually lie in certain positions to avoid becoming kinked. A volvulus occurs when part of the small intestine becomes twisted around itself, potentially cutting off blood supply. This condition requires immediate surgery to untwist the bowel, and those who develop a volvulus will need a special diet both before and after treatment.
Surgery
Surgery to repair a volvulus involves a period of time when you will be unable to eat or drink anything. After surgery, your physician will give you specific instructions about what you can eat to protect your intestines. You may need to eat small, frequent meals to get enough calories without taking in too much food at once. You may also need to limit fiber intake, such as raw apples, broccoli, nuts or seeds. Some physicians order a bland diet, which avoids spicy or highly seasoned foods to keep from irritating your intestines while they heal.
Constipation
Constipation is a leading cause of volvulus among older adults. Constipation often occurs when too much water is absorbed during the digestion process and stools become small and hard. According to Jackson-Siegelbaum Gastroenterology, to avoid constipation and the potential for a volvulus, you may try to eat foods that contain fiber. Some examples include whole grains, raw or stewed fruits and vegetables such as carrots, celery, spinach or cabbage. Additionally, drinking more fluids may help keep liquid in the stool, possibly reducing constipation.
Children
Some babies are born with malrotation of the intestines, in which the small and large intestines are not fixed in the right position during fetal development. This condition can cause a volvulus if the intestines twist on themselves and cut off blood supply. Babies with a volvulus may have abdominal pain and distention, they may cry easily and may have vomiting. These children may have difficulty getting enough nutrition because they may be unable to digest food properly or they may be too uncomfortable to eat.
Short Bowel Syndrome
In some situations, lack of blood to the intestine because of a volvulus can cause permanent damage, and if a significant portion of the bowel must be removed, a child can develop short bowel syndrome. Children who have this procedure often need intravenous fluids for a period of time after surgery to allow the intestine to heal. Afterward, these children may need to eat small, frequent meals to gain enough calories without adding too much food at once. They may also need lifelong electrolyte replacement if they are unable to absorb enough vitamins and minerals through food.
References
- “Annals of Surgery”; Acute Small Bowel Volvulus in Adults. A Sporadic Form of Strangulating Intestinal Obstruction; A. Roggo, et al.; August 1992
- Washington Hospital Center: Post-op Instructions
- Aetna Intelihealth: Bowel Obstruction
- Jackson-Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Constipation
- Kids Health: Intestinal Malrotation
