Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026

Microfluidic Model of Necrotizing Enterocolitis Incorporating Human Neonatal Intestinal Enteroids and a Dysbiotic Microbiome
Published on: July 28, 2023
Meckel's diverticulum induced intrauterine intussusception associated with ileal atresia complicated by meconium
Chien-Heng Lin1, Shu-Fen Wu, Wei-Ching Lin
1Department of Pediatrics, Jen-Ai Hospital, Tali, Taiwan.
Abstract:
Intrauterine intussusception with a leading point of Meckel's diverticulum is a rare cause of ileal atresia, which may cause bowel obstruction and perforation. We report such a case complicated by meconium peritonitis. The fetal ultrasonogram revealed ascites, dilated bowel loops and intra-abdominal calcification at a gestational age of 30 weeks. The patient was delivered at 37 weeks and laparotomy was performed to manage the intestinal obstruction. The operative findings showed that Meckel's diverticulum had induced intussusception associated with the ileal atresia with meconium peritonitis. The ileum was resected with end-to-end anastomosis. The postoperative course was uneventful. In this patient, ascites and intraperitoneal calcification were caused by ileal atresia, which may have been induced by intrauterine intussusception.
Insights
A rare case of intrauterine intussusception caused by Meckel's diverticulum led to ileal atresia and meconium peritonitis. Surgical intervention successfully resolved the bowel obstruction and perforation in this newborn.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Neonatal Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Ileal atresia is a congenital condition causing bowel obstruction.
- Meckel's diverticulum can act as a leading point for intussusception.
- Meconium peritonitis indicates bowel perforation in utero.
Observation:
- Fetal ultrasonography at 30 weeks revealed ascites, dilated bowel loops, and intra-abdominal calcification.
- A neonate presented with signs suggestive of intrauterine bowel compromise.
- Intrauterine intussusception with a leading Meckel's diverticulum was identified as the cause.
Findings:
- The patient had ileal atresia secondary to intrauterine intussusception.
- Meckel's diverticulum was confirmed as the leading point causing intussusception.
- Meconium peritonitis was a complication of the ileal atresia and perforation.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare etiology for ileal atresia and meconium peritonitis.
- Early diagnosis via fetal ultrasonography is crucial for timely intervention.
- Surgical management, including resection and anastomosis, can lead to favorable outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Appendicitis
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
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...
