Intestinal Malrotation in a Patient with Gastric Cancer during Laparoscopic Total Gastrectomy: A Case Report

Abstract

AIM: Intestinal malrotation (IM) represents a rare congenital anomaly in adults, although it is more common during infancy. This condition originates during embryonic development due to incomplete rotation of the midgut around the superior mesenteric vessels. The primary aim of this case study is to emphasize the importance of surgeon awareness and recognition of this congenital anomaly during laparoscopic gastric surgery to avoid serious complications.   

CASE PRESENTATION: A 45-year-old male presented to the clinic with a complaint of vague epigastric pain for two months. The patient underwent a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including laboratory tests, endoscopic examination, and radiological imaging. The diagnostic workup revealed early-stage gastric cancer. Incidentally, radiological studies also demonstrated a congenital non-rotation of the small bowel. Given the patient's congenital anatomical anomaly, a laparoscopic total gastrectomy was performed employing a reversed C-shaped Roux-En-Y limb reconstruction. Postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged in stable condition. 

RESULTS: The patient was doing well at the 2-year follow-up, there were no complications related to the form of anastomosis, and the pathological result was comparable to that of patients with non-rotating small bowls.   

CONCLUSIONS: Intestinal malrotation is an uncommon asymptomatic congenital abnormality in adults. During laparoscopic gastric surgery, the surgeon should identify this anomaly to optimize surgical approaches, particularly during anastomosis formation. Accurate identification and appropriate management of intestinal malrotation are crucial to mitigate potential postoperative complications, including twisting, obstruction, tension, and anastomosis leak.