Incidence of Sigmoid Volvulus in Northern Uganda. An Observational Study

Background: Sigmoid volvulus (SV) has a considerable geographical variation in its incidence. The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of SV in Northern Uganda.Methods:A two year retrospective and one year prospective study in 19 hospitals in Northern Uganda from January 2010 to December 2012 was conducted to determine the incidence of sigmoid volvulus. All patients’ records with a diagnosis of sigmoid volvulus were included in the study. Ethical approval was obtained from the IRB Gulu University and Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCS&T). Data analysis was conducted using STATA/IC version 12.1.Results:The incidence of SV in Northern Uganda was 251.8 per 100,000 surgical population in 2 years. Cases were least observed from May to November and most cases were seen in the dry season from December to April.
Conclusions:The incidence of SV in Northern Uganda was 251.8 per 100,000 surgical population in 2 years. The proportion of bowel obstructions due to sigmoid volvulus in Northern Uganda was 23.4% and similarly comparable with the proportion found in other African countries and higher than those indeveloped countries.