PURPOSE: To study the presentation, management, and outcome of patient
s with ileosigmoid knotting admitted to a district general hospital in
an area of relatively high incidence. METHODS: A retrospective study
of 15 patients treated for ileosigmoid knotting at Holy Family Hospita
l, Berekum, Ghana, during the period 1984 to 1990 inclusive. RESULTS:
The overall mortality was 47 percent and did not differ between those
with viable bowel and those with gangrenous bowel There appeared to be
a significant risk of recurrent volvulus in patients who did not unde
rgo resection at initial presentation. CONCLUSION: Ileosigmoid knottin
g carries a significant risk of mortality, and sigmoid resection shoul
d be considered for all patients with this unusual condition.