Imaging of Meckel's diverticulum in adults: pictorial essay

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Congenital Abnormalities

Background:

• Meckel's diverticulum is the most frequent congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract.
• While typically asymptomatic, it can lead to serious complications such as inflammation, hemorrhage, obstruction, and neoplasm.
• Accurate preoperative diagnosis is essential for appropriate patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anatomical and clinical characteristics of Meckel's diverticulum.
• To describe the utility of various imaging modalities in diagnosing Meckel's diverticulum.
• To evaluate the role of imaging in assessing pathological processes associated with Meckel's diverticulum.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of anatomical and clinical features of Meckel's diverticulum.
• Review of imaging techniques used for Meckel's diverticulum detection.
• Analysis of imaging findings in associated pathological conditions.

Main Results:

• Meckel's diverticulum presents with a spectrum of complications requiring timely diagnosis.
• Radiological imaging is crucial for identifying Meckel's diverticulum and its complications.
• Imaging modalities aid in the evaluation of inflammation, bleeding, obstruction, and neoplastic changes.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum via imaging is critical.
• Radiological assessment is indispensable for managing patients with Meckel's diverticulum and its sequelae.
• Understanding the imaging features aids in surgical planning and patient outcomes.