The Whirlpool Sign in Pediatric Body Imaging: Diagnostic Value and Clinical Implications

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The whirlpool sign denotes twisting of the vascular pedicle of a nearby organ, suggesting an emergency that needs urgent attention and prompt treatment. Although the whirlpool sign does not determine the underlying cause of torsion, it is most often specific for torsion, which is the driving force for management in most scenarios. A mesenteric whirlpool indicates midgut malrotation and volvulus, while in the adnexa it denotes ovarian torsion, and finally a scrotal whirlpool indicates testicular torsion. Thus, it is important to recognize such signs, mostly on ultrasound, to avoid the downsides of delayed recognition and improper treatment.