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Published on: November 1, 2018
The many faces of Meckel's diverticulum and its complications
Seo-Youn Choi1, Seong Sook Hong2, Hyun Jeong Park3
1Department of Radiology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea.
Abstract:
Meckel's diverticulum is the most frequent congenital malformation of the gastrointestinal tract, occurring in 2% of the general population. Meckel's diverticulum is usually asymptomatic and found incidentally. However, the lifetime risk of complications is 4-40%. In this essay, we describe the clinical and imaging findings in 12 cases of Meckel's diverticula with complications over a 5-year period, which were confirmed pathologically. The major complications of Meckel's diverticulum include gastrointestinal bleeding, bowel obstruction, perforation and inflammation. Small bowel follow-through (SBFT), computed tomography (CT) including CT enterography and RI scintigraphy can be used to show typical imaging features of Meckel's diverticulum and its complications. Knowledge of the clinical and radiologic findings of Meckel's diverticulum can aid in the early and accurate diagnosis of this anomaly and its complications.
Insights
Meckel's diverticulum, a common congenital anomaly, often presents asymptomatically but carries a significant risk of complications like bleeding and obstruction. Early diagnosis through clinical and imaging findings is crucial for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital malformation of the gastrointestinal tract, affecting 2% of the population.
- While often asymptomatic, it has a 4-40% lifetime risk of serious complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical and imaging findings of complicated Meckel's diverticulum.
- To highlight the role of diagnostic imaging in identifying this anomaly and its complications.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 12 pathologically confirmed cases of complicated Meckel's diverticulum over 5 years.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and imaging studies including Small Bowel Follow-Through (SBFT), CT enterography, and RI scintigraphy.
Main Results:
- The study identified major complications including gastrointestinal bleeding, bowel obstruction, perforation, and inflammation.
- Typical imaging features for Meckel's diverticulum and its complications were observed across various modalities.
Conclusions:
- Clinical and radiologic findings are key to the early and accurate diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum and its complications.
- Prompt diagnosis facilitates timely intervention and management of this common congenital anomaly.
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