WP5.5 - Investigating the Optimal Timing for Definitive Treatment in Sigmoid Volvulus: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract Aims The evidence base is replete of guidance on the optimal timing for definitive surgical management of acute sigmoid volvulus (ASV), with limited understanding or long-term outcomes for those managed conservatively. This study aimed to assess the management and outcomes of this understudied patient population. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a UK tertiary centre between January 2018 and December 2022. Results 69 patients presented with ASV (54M:15F, age 73.7 SD +/- 15.0 years). The median number of acute admissions per patient was 2 (IQR 1-4.5), with 29 patients (42.0%) presenting only once. 44 patients (63.8%) were managed conservatively. Of those patients, 22 (50.0%) were readmitted within the study period. 25 patients (26.2%) underwent operative management, with 18 (72.0%) of these patients undergoing emergency surgery (6 during their index admission, 33.3%). Elective surgical management was performed in 7 patients after an average of 3 previous admissions. All-cause mortality amongst the cohort was 47.8% (n=33), with a median life span of 1.1 years from index admission (IQR 0.3-2.6); 24.0% in the operative group (5 acute, 1 elective) versus 61.4% in the conservatively managed group. Conservatively managed patients were at greater odds of mortality compared to acutely operated patients (OR 4.129, 95% CI 1.25-13.67, p=0.02) and electively operated patients (OR 9.529, 95% CI 1.05-86.20, p=0.045). Acute operations had no significant greater odds of mortality compared to elective operations (p=0.49). Conclusions Conservative management of ASV was associated with greater odds of all-cause mortality compared to patients who received an operation. Operations performed in the acute setting had no greater mortality odds than in the elective setting.