Prenatal-Postnatal Outcomes and Prognostic Risk Factors of Fetal Volvulus: Analysis of 26 Cases

ObjectiveThe aim of the current study was to reveal ultrasonographic and clinical features, prenatal-postnatal outcomes and prognostic risk factors of fetal volvulus.MethodThis retrospective study evaluated all cases of fetal volvulus diagnosed between 2018 and 2024 at the Perinatology center of Zeynep Kamil Women and Children Diseases Training and Research Hospital. In the vast majority of cases, the pediatric surgery team confirmed the conclusive diagnosis of volvulus during the postnatal period. The cohort was divided into two groups, the "survivor" and "deceased", in order to compare the outcome and to evaluate factors determining the outcome.ResultA total of 26 cases of fetal volvulus were followed up in our perinatology center which were confirmed by postnatal pediatric surgery or autopsy. Termination of pregnancy in two cases and intrauterine fetal death in one case were observed. Twenty-three cases reached live birth. Preterm labor, fetal growth restriction, ascites and decreased intestinal peristalsis were significantly more common in the deceased group. Neonatal death in five cases (19.2%), infant death in four cases (15.3%) and short gut syndrome in three cases (11.5%) were long term outcomes.ConclusionOverall mortality rate may increase when fetal growth restriction, ascites, and decreased intestinal peristalsis are present with volvulus.