Caecal volvulus following left-side laparoscopic retroperitoneal nephroureterectomy

Abstract

Caecal volvulus is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction, with a high associated morbidity and mortality. Caecal volvulus is a very rare complication following retroperitoneal surgery. As such, a high degree of clinical suspicion is warranted post operatively to minimise delay in definitively investigating and managing this condition. We present a case of an 80-year-old Caucasian woman who was admitted for an elective left-sided laparoscopic retroperitoneal nephroureterectomy for transitional cell carcinoma of the left upper pole renal calyx. Postoperatively, the patient developed intestinal obstruction, secondary to caecal volvulus. The patient underwent an emergency laparotomy and limited right-sided colonic resection with primary anastomosis.