1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Experienced Colonic Volvulus Doctor - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Colonic volvulus refers to the twisting of large intestine that obstructs food, blood flow and brings a lot of pain. Dr. Bharat Pothuri gives timely diagnosis and customized care at GastroDoxs, Houston including imaging and endoscopic decompression as well as complex surgical treatment to achieve fast healing.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Persistent constipation with delayed and extended elongation of the colon.
  • An unusually long or mobile segment of colon
  • Scar tissue (adhesions) from prior abdominal surgery
  • Advanced age (over 60 years)
  • Causative neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson disease)
  • Dehydration and persistent constipation in hot climates

Signs and Symptoms

  • Sudden, severe abdominal pain or cramping
  • Acute, acute abdominal pain or cramping.
  • Nausea and repeated vomiting
  • Inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement
  • Rapid heartbeat, fever, or hypotension (indications of emergency)

Expert Treatment for Colonic Volvulus by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He examines your symptoms, intestinal routine, surgeries and threats on the abdomen (age, neurologic issues, dehydration). Then he palpates your belly smoothly to determine any abdominal tenderness, distension and abnormal bowel movements.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal x-ray to check perforated colon loop and so-called coffe bean sign. Abdomen/pelvis .
  • CT scan of the abdomen/pelvis to confirm the twist, assess blood flow and check for complications.

Contrast Enema

In case more information is necessary, water-soluble contrast enema describes the design of the colon and identifies the position of the torsion.

Laboratory Tests (if indicated)

Blood tests to assess dehydration, electrolyte disorders, evidence of infection or tissue injury as a result of poor circulation.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for colonic volvulus.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Slowly increase the amount of fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
  • Maintain adequate hydration, especially in hot weather
  • Establish regular bathroom routines
  • Light abdominal massage/ breath exercises.

2. Medications

  • Stool softeners or mild laxatives to overcome constipation
  • IV fluids for dehydration management
  • Mild pain medications that do not impair bowel function

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic decompression: the softening of the colon using a flexible tube.
  • Laparoscopic surgery: small-incision repair or resection of the twisted segment
  • Open surgery: emergency excision of the affected tissue and replacement of blood circulation
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the urgency of the colonic volvulus treatment?

Very urgent. The endoscopic colon may obstruct the flow of blood in a short time. Well-timed treatment saves your colon, and eliminates severe complications.

Is the endoscopic examination painful?

No. You will be mildly sedated, and in most cases, the patients do not experience much or no pain during endoscopic decompression.

Is there a possibility of colonic volvulus reoccurring?

Yes, they happen again but not very many. They can be surgically fixed or resected in order to minimize the chance of twists later.

Should I remain in the hospital?

In case undergoing endoscopic alone, you can go home on the same day. The surgical cases are usually suited with a short-term monitoring and recovery that lasts in between 2-5 days.

When can I eat again?

The general diet of the most patients starts with clear liquids and progresses to soft foods over 1-2 days, which depends on the tolerability and the type of procedure.

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