Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 3, 2026
03:40
Three-Dimensional Printing of a Complex Aortic Anomaly
Published on: November 1, 2018
Perforated Meckel diverticulum
Brian T Kloss1, Claire E Broton, Anne Marie Sullivan
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Upstate Medical University, 550 East Genesee Street, Syracuse, NY 13202 USA.
International Journal of Emergency Medicine
|March 5, 2011
Summary
Perforation of a Meckel diverticulum (MD) can mimic appendicitis in children. This case highlights the importance of considering MD in pediatric patients with suspected appendicitis, especially when imaging is inconclusive.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Meckel diverticulum (MD) perforation is a rare but serious complication.
- It frequently presents with symptoms that mimic acute appendicitis, leading to diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of a pediatric patient with Meckel diverticulum perforation.
- To emphasize the diagnostic considerations for Meckel diverticulum in pediatric appendicitis mimics.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a child presenting with right lower quadrant abdominal pain.
- Utilized ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography (CT) for initial evaluation.
- Diagnosis confirmed intraoperatively via laparoscopy.
Main Results:
- Initial presentation suggested ruptured appendicitis.
- Imaging revealed free fluid and air, and inflammatory changes.
- Laparoscopy confirmed Meckel diverticulum perforation as the cause.
Conclusions:
- Ruptured Meckel diverticulum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric appendicitis.
- High index of suspicion is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.
- Laparoscopy remains a key diagnostic and therapeutic tool.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Diverticular 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...
01:22Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
01:28Esophageal 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:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:19Appendicitis
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...
01:27Mitral Valve Prolapse I: Introduction
IntroductionThe mitral valve, one of the heart's four valves, regulates blood flow. These valves have flaps that open and close to direct blood properly through the heart and body. During each heartbeat, the flaps open for blood to pass through and seal shut to prevent backflow. Specifically, the mitral valve opens to allow blood flow from the heart's upper left chamber to the lower left chamber. It then closes securely as the lower left chamber contracts to pump blood to the body, preventing...
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD: