Early recurrent midgut volvulus post Ladd’s procedure in a newborn: a case report

TL;DR

A newborn girl who had surgery for intestinal malrotation developed a rare complication of recurrent volvulus shortly after discharge, highlighting the need for close monitoring.

Contribution

This case report highlights the rare occurrence of early recurrent volvulus after Ladd’s procedure in a newborn.

Findings

A newborn girl developed recurrent volvulus two days after discharge following a Ladd’s procedure.

Exploratory surgery successfully reduced the volvulus at the duodenojejunal junction.

The case emphasizes the importance of vigilance for rare postoperative complications.

Abstract

Ladd’s procedure is the standard surgical intervention for intestinal malrotation. Although generally curative, rare cases of early postoperative complications, including adhesions or recurrent volvulus, can necessitate reoperation. We present the case of a full-term newborn girl who underwent emergent Ladd’s procedure on Day 3 of life for malrotation with volvulus. She was discharged on postoperative Day 17 but returned the following day with recurrent bilious emesis. Imaging suggested partial obstruction. Exploratory laparotomy revealed recurrent volvulus with two twists at the duodenojejunal junction, which was successfully reduced. The patient recovered well and was discharged on postoperative Day 8. This case underscores the importance of clinical vigilance in detecting rare postoperative complications following Ladd’s procedure.

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