Which common volvulus can be treated with rectal tube insertion?

The treatment of sigmoid volvulus with rectal tube insertion is effective due to the characteristic anatomy and pathophysiology involved. In sigmoid volvulus, the sigmoid colon twists around its mesenteric attachment, leading to obstruction. The primary goal in the acute management of this condition is to relieve the obstruction, and the use of a rectal tube can help decompress the distended bowel. By inserting a rectal tube, air and fluid can be evacuated from the colon, which may alleviate the twisting and allow for spontaneous resolution of the volvulus in some cases, particularly if it is discovered early.

This technique takes advantage of the fact that sigmoid volvulus often occurs in elderly patients with chronic constipation or conditions leading to a lack of motility. As the rectal tube decompresses the bowel, it can also provide symptomatic relief and can occasionally allow the bowel to untwist or prevent further twisting.

In contrast, cecal volvulus typically requires surgical intervention since it often involves a more complex situation where the cecum is affected and may not respond adequately to non-surgical measures such as rectal tube insertion. Therefore, while rectal tube insertion can be a non-invasive method to manage sigmoid volvulus, it is not an effective treatment for cec