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Volvulus is when the bowel twists on itself and causes a blockage so the contents can't flow through. The blockage can reduce blood flow and lead to tissue death. In children, this is most commonly due to a birth defect called malrotation. Malrotation happens during fetal development.

Symptoms include severe stomach pain and bloating, nausea, vomiting, bloody stools and constipation.

Emergency surgery is needed to repair the volvulus and remove possible dead tissue.