[Intestinal occlusion caused by persistent omphalomesenteric duct and Meckel's diverticulum: report of 2 cases]

Two rare cases of mechanical intestinal obstruction due to an omphalomesenteric duct remnant and/or to a Meckel's diverticulum, respectively, are reported. The first case was a 20-year-old man and the second an 87-year-old woman. In contrast with various reports in the literature, our experience demonstrates that this kind of obstruction may also affect elderly female patients in western countries. Both patients showed signs and symptoms of intestinal obstruction and were operated on as emergencies. A complete diagnosis was possible only at operation and early surgery was important to prevent strangulation and gangrene of the bowel. The authors conclude that prompt and appropriate surgical treatment reduces the mortality risk in all patients with intestinal obstruction, including even resected cases.