Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 21, 2026

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
05:07

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia

Published on: July 21, 2023

Meckel's diverticulum with small bowel obstruction presenting as appendicitis in a pediatric patient

S Sameer Mohiuddin1, Adolfo Gonzalez, Cynthia Corpron

  • 1sameermohiuddin@gmail.com

JSLS : Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons
|May 31, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

A rare internal hernia caused by Meckel's diverticulum can mimic appendicitis. Surgeons recommend examining the small bowel during appendectomy to identify this potentially overlooked congenital anomaly.

Area of Science:

  • Congenital anomalies
  • Gastrointestinal surgery
  • Pediatric surgery

Background:

  • Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital anomaly from incomplete omphalomesenteric duct obliteration.
  • Incidence is 0.3%-2.5%, with most cases asymptomatic.
  • Complications can mimic other conditions, complicating diagnosis.

Observation:

  • An 8-year-old male presented with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis.
  • Clinical examination and CT scan indicated appendicitis with small bowel dilation.

Findings:

  • Laparoscopic appendectomy revealed an unremarkable appendix.
  • An inflamed Meckel's diverticulum with an adhesive band caused a small bowel obstruction via internal hernia.
  • Resection of the diverticulum was performed after appendectomy.

Implications:

  • Internal hernias associated with Meckel's diverticulum are rare.
  • Diseased Meckel's diverticulum can be misdiagnosed, particularly when symptoms resemble appendicitis.
  • Routine small bowel assessment during appendectomy is advised to detect pathological Meckel's diverticulum.

More Related Videos

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction07:33

A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction

Published on: March 5, 2018

Related Concept Videos

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...
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...
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...
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction01:29

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...
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...
Pyloric Obstruction01:11

Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...