Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
05:07

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia

Published on: July 21, 2023

A double Meckel's diverticulum as obscure gastrointestinal bleeding cause. Report of a case

L Mazza1, M Garino, A Morgando

  • 17th Division of General Surgery, S. Giovanni Battista Hospital, Turin, Italy. luca_mazza@hotmail.com

Minerva Gastroenterologica E Dietologica
|March 25, 2006
PubMed

Insights

A rare case of double Meckel's diverticulum with ectopic gastric mucosa caused obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. This variant was successfully diagnosed using a double contrast enema and treated laparoscopically.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, occurring in 1-4% of the population.
  • Complications include bleeding, obstruction, diverticulitis, and perforation.
  • Ectopic mucosa, primarily gastric or pancreatic, is found in up to 60% of cases, with neoplastic changes in 1-5%.

Observation:

  • A 25-year-old male presented with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • The bleeding was attributed to a double Meckel's diverticulum located in the jejunum and ileum.
  • Both diverticula contained ectopic gastric mucosa.

Findings:

  • Diagnosis was achieved through a small bowel double contrast enema.
  • The patient underwent successful laparoscopic tangential resection of the affected segments.
  • This represents a rare instance of a double Meckel's diverticulum with ectopic gastric mucosa diagnosed via double contrast enema.

Implications:

  • Highlights the diagnostic utility of double contrast enema for rare gastrointestinal anomalies.
  • Demonstrates the successful laparoscopic management of complex Meckel's diverticulum cases.
  • Contributes to the understanding of Meckel's diverticulum variants and their clinical presentations.

Related Concept Videos

Diverticular Disease of the Colon01:27

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management01:28

Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction01:24

Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction

Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
Appendicitis01:19

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus01:25

Assessment of the Rectum and Anus

Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis01:27

Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis

Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...