[Metastatic malignant melanoma of the small bowel as a surgical emergency]

2 cases of metastasis of malignant melanoma to the small bowel presenting as surgical emergencies due to obstruction, are reported. In both cases there was no other evidence of metastatic spread at the time of surgery. Segmental resection of involved bowel was performed, providing satisfactory palliation. This reinforces the opinion that surgical resection of symptomatic metastases of malignant melanoma to the small bowel is justified, despite the poor prognosis of the disease itself.