What does it mean when your intestines are twisted/volvulus?

Think garden hose: The intestines are a complex & long tubular structure with some parts firmly attached & some parts that float somewhat freely in the abdomen. If the free floating parts become twisted on them self, it not only stops flow as it would in your hose, it can begin to cut off the blood supply. If left untreated, the gut can die & start leaking contents & germs into the abdomen. This can be fatal.

Malrotation: Twisting or volvulus of the intestines can result from birth. It should be confirmed by xray studies and most likely would require surgery to prevent serious complications.