EGS P31 Small bowel obstruction in an elderly female secondary to congenital Ladd’s band. A rare case presentation

Abstract

Abstract Background Intestinal malrotation is a congenital anomaly which arises during embryonic development. This can be associated with peritoneal tissue known as Ladd’s bands which can cause predisposition to intestinal obstruction. The incidence of intestinal malrotation is reported to be approximately 0.2% in the adult population [G]. Cases of intestinal obstruction secondary to malrotation commonly present in the paediatric population, but rarely may only be detected at adulthood. We present an elderly women who presented with features suggestive small bowel obstruction. Methods We present a rare case of a 78 year old female presenting with a three day history of coffee-ground vomiting, abdominal pain and dizziness. The patient had a notable background of a hiatus hernia and atrial fibrillation for which she was being treated with edoxaban. An abdominal X-ray film showed faecal loading. CT imaging revealed a high-grade small-bowel obstruction with an acute transitional point at the terminal ileum secondary to congenital Ladd's band which was confirmed at laparotomy. Subsequently, a Ladd’s procedure was performed and the patient was discharged after making a good recovery. Results In this case report, we highlight the importance of considering congenital anomalies in patients presenting with symptoms of bowel obstruction. We discuss the importance of appropriate investigations as well as multidisciplinary care to help facilitate early diagnosis. Conclusions Congenital Ladd’s band is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction in an elderly population. Although the diagnosis of intestinal malrotation can be challenging in adulthood, congenital anomalies should be considered as a differential in patients presenting with symptomatic obstruction.