What does the term "malrotation" refer to in pediatric surgery?

Malrotation refers to an abnormal rotation of the bowel during fetal development, which can lead to the displacement of the small intestine and potentially result in intestinal obstruction or volvulus after birth. During the normal development of the gastrointestinal tract, the intestines undergo a specific process of rotation and fixation. When this process is disrupted, the bowel can be improperly positioned, making it susceptible to complications such as twisting or strangulation. Understanding the concept of malrotation is crucial in pediatric surgery, as it is a condition that may require surgical intervention to correct and prevent severe gastrointestinal complications.