What is a common cause of a sigmoid colon volvulus?

A sigmoid colon volvulus occurs when the sigmoid colon twists around itself and the mesentery, leading to a blockage and potentially compromising blood supply. One of the most common causes of this condition is the presence of a dilated colon, which can happen due to an abnormal pattern of bowel movements. When bowel habits are irregular, and especially in cases of chronic constipation, the colon may become distended and contribute to the risk of twisting.

While other factors such as diverticular disease can impact the health of the colon, they do not directly contribute to the mechanical twisting seen in volvulus as abnormal bowel movements do. Inadequate fiber intake can lead to constipation and further increase the risk of bowel obstruction, potentially leading to volvulus. However, the direct relationship between abnormal bowel movements and the risk of examining the colon suggests that irregularities in bowel habits are a key factor in creating the conditions favorable for a sigmoid colon volvulus to occur.