Unusual presentation of a Meckel's diverticulum: A case report

Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is the most common congenital malformation of the gastrointestinal tract. Intestinal obstruction is the lead presenting symptom in the adult population due to multiple causes (intussusception, incarceration, adhesions, strictures and torsion). Our patient had a complicated MD with an unique combination of risk factors and findings.

We report an unusual case of an 18-year-old patient presenting with acute small bowel obstruction for several days, who developed focal peritoneal signs on right lower quadrant. On laparotomy, findings included a necrotic giant MD and a small bowel volvulus around a fibrous band that attached MD to the umbilicus. Segmental enterectomy with primary anastomosis was performed.

Axial torsion and gangrene of MD is the rarest complication. Its pre-operative diagnosis remains elusive as it can be clinically indistinguishable from other intra-abdominal inflammatory conditions. The correct diagnosis of complicated MD before surgery is often difficult because this condition can mimic other acute abdominal pathologies. There are several risk factors that can point to an accurate and early diagnosis, especially when combined with the appropriate imaging techniques, such as computed tomography with oral and intravenous contrast.

This complication remains underdiagnosed, often with delayed surgical intervention and sub-optimal treatment that leads to significant morbidity and mortality.