What is omentum torsion?
What is omentum torsion?
Omental torsion is a condition in which the organ twists on its long axis to such an extent that its vascularity is compromised. Although it is rarely diagnosed preoperatively, knowledge of this entity is important to the surgeon because it mimics the common causes of acute surgical abdomen.
What causes omental torsion?
Secondary omental torsion is associated with a number of pre-existing conditions most common among them is inguinal hernia, other causes include tumours, cysts, internal or external herniation, foci of intra-abdominal inflammation and postsurgical wound or scarring.
What causes omental inflammation?
Primary causes, or contributing factors, to omental torsion encompass obesity, local trauma, heavy food intake, coughing, sudden body movements, laxative use and hyperperistalsis.
Can the omentum cause pain?
INTRODUCTION. Torsion of the greater omentum is a rare, benign cause of acute abdominal pain, caused by twisting of the omentum around a pivotal point, usually in a clockwise direction [1].
What does omentum mean in medical terms?
(oh-MEN-tum) A fold of the peritoneum (the thin tissue that lines the abdomen) that surrounds the stomach and other organs in the abdomen.
How is omental infarction treated?
Although the classical treatment of omental infarction is surgery, more recently the conservative management has been suggested. Thus, we believe that the knowledge of the characteristic imaging findings is essential for establish a correct preoperative diagnosis, which can avoid unnecessary surgical intervention.
What does omentum pain feel like?
Patients will present with a sudden onset of cramps/abdominal pain or a ‘stitch’. The pain localises in the area of the umbilicus and can radiate to the lumbar and surrounding regions.
Where is omentum located?
The omentum. It’s a curtain of fatty tissue that hangs down from our stomach and liver and wraps around the intestines, and is known to play a role in immune responses and metabolism, although exactly how that happens is only dimly understood.
Does omental infarction require surgery?
In 15 cases reported since 1992, 9 (60%) were diagnosed with omental infarction preoperatively; 8 were treated conservatively and 1 was treated surgically. Omental infarction, therefore, may be treated with observation, and surgery may be avoided.
How is omental infarction diagnosed?
Omental infarction is a differential diagnosis in the acute abdomen. As most cases of omental infarction can be adequately diagnosed via computed tomography, a conservative treatment strategy for patients without complications should be considered in order to avoid any unnecessary surgical intervention.
Can you live without your omentum?
Patients function normally after having part of their omentum cut away, placing it in the same category as the appendix or the gall bladder — interesting, but non-essential. The study authors, however, would like the medical community to reassess their conceptions of this overlooked, and at time maligned, organ.