[Complications of Meckel's diverticulum. Report of 42 cases]

Mohamed Issam Beyrouti1, Mohamed Ben Amar, Ramez Beyrouti

  • 1Service de chirurgie générale, EPS Habib Bourguiba, Sfax, Tunisie.

La Tunisie Medicale
|October 20, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Complicated Meckel

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology and Surgery
  • Congenital Malformations
  • Digestive Tract Diseases

Context:

  • Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital anomaly of the small intestine.
  • Complications often present with non-specific symptoms, delaying diagnosis.
  • This study analyzes 42 cases of complicated Meckel's diverticulum over 18 years.

Purpose:

  • To report the main complications of Meckel's diverticulum.
  • To highlight diagnostic challenges and treatment outcomes.
  • To emphasize the importance of surgical exploration in diagnosis.

Summary:

  • The study reviewed 42 cases of complicated Meckel's diverticulum, with a median age of 25 and a male predominance (sex-ratio 3.2).
  • Common presentations included acute intestinal obstruction (22 cases) and appendicitis-like symptoms (13 cases).
  • Diagnosis was often confirmed intraoperatively, with surgical exploration revealing peritonitis, diverticulitis, intussusception, tumors, or ulceration. Histological findings included gastric and pancreatic heterotopia, and one case of Burkitt's lymphoma.

Impact:

  • Meckel's diverticulum is a frequent benign malformation with prognosis heavily dependent on complication severity.
  • Laparoscopic approaches may aid in diagnosis and treatment.
  • Early recognition and surgical intervention are crucial for improved patient outcomes.

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...
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...
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management01:28

Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management

Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
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...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
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...