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Meckel diverticulum causing small bowel obstruction
1Princess Royal Hospital, Surgery, 48 Pooler Close, Telford, Shropshire , TF1 2HP, UK.
BMJ Case Reports
|April 6, 2012
Summary
A perforated Meckel diverticulum caused a small bowel obstruction in a 62-year-old man. This condition presented with abdominal pain, distension, and vomiting, requiring surgical intervention. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Meckel diverticulum is a congenital anomaly of the small intestine.
- Complications include obstruction, bleeding, and diverticulitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of small bowel obstruction secondary to a perforated Meckel diverticulum.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges and management of this rare condition.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 62-year-old male with acute abdominal symptoms.
- Diagnostic workup included physical examination and CT scan.
- Surgical management via laparotomy.
Main Results:
- Patient presented with generalized abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting, and distension.
- CT scan revealed small bowel obstruction and a possible abscess.
- Laparotomy confirmed a perforated Meckel diverticulum as the cause.
Conclusions:
- Perforated Meckel diverticulum can mimic other acute abdominal conditions like diverticulitis.
- Prompt surgical intervention is essential for managing complications such as small bowel obstruction.
- This case underscores the importance of considering Meckel diverticulum in the differential diagnosis of acute abdomen.
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