What is the expected treatment approach for a patient with acute gastric volvulus?

• A. Immediate surgical intervention
• B. Fluid resuscitation
• C. Decompression via nasogastric tube
• D. Antibiotic therapy

Answer: (C)

In cases of acute gastric volvulus, gastric contents can become trapped due to the twisting of the stomach, leading to potential ischemia and perforation. The immediate priority in managing this condition is to relieve the obstruction and decompress the stomach to prevent further complications.

Decompression via a nasogastric tube is a critical first step. This approach allows for the removal of accumulated gastric contents, alleviating pressure within the stomach and helping to reduce the risk of ischemia. While it does not address the underlying volvulus, it can stabilize the patient and is often performed while preparing for surgical intervention, which may be necessary to correct the volvulus and prevent recurrence.

Immediate surgical intervention is typically required after initial stabilization and decompression, but the immediate step to address the acute symptoms caused by the volvulus involves decompressing the stomach. Fluid resuscitation and antibiotic therapy may become relevant later in the management if there's concern for shock or infection; however, they are not the first-line interventions to relieve the acute obstruction.