Seven cases of sigmoid volvulus in Parkinson’s disease

Non-motor features of Parkinson’s disease are receiving greater recognition. Constipation affects up to 50% of patients with Parkinson’s disease and sigmoid volvulus remains an under recognised complication with mortality rates up to 50%. The incidence of sigmoid volvulus in the general population is 1.7/100,000/year. The specific incidence in Parkinson’s disease is not known; however, this case series suggests that it is noticeably more than in the general population at 100/100,000/year. This paper highlights the importance of early recognition and treatment of constipation to prevent volvulus developing and the various treatments currently available.