Bleeding Meckel Diverticulum: A Retrospective Analysis of Computed Tomography Enterography Findings
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Published on: August 28, 2018
Ying Chen, Yonghua Tang1, Chunhong Hu
1Department of Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the computed tomography enterography (CTE) characteristics of bleeding Meckel diverticulum.
Methods:
The CTE images of 35 patients with Meckel diverticulum and gastrointestinal bleeding were retrospectively evaluated.
Results:
Meckel diverticulum was visualized in 33 of 35 patients and located in the right lower abdomen (20/33), midline lower abdomen (8/33), left lower abdomen (3/33), or paramedially near the umbilicus (2/33). The Meckel diverticulum was visualized on the antimesenteric side of the ileum in 16 patients (48.5%) and pointed toward the umbilicus in 10 (30.3%). The diverticulum appeared as a blind-ended tubular (22/33 [66.7%]) or saccular (11/33 [33.3%]) bowel segment. Separated supplying vessel was identified in 15 patients (45.5%) and associated with diverticulum (P = 0.037). The ectopic tissue was pathologically confirmed in 11 (33.3%) of 33 patients and was associated with diverticular nodules (P = 0.002).
Conclusions:
Awareness of CTE features could aid in the preoperative assessment of bleeding Meckel diverticulum.
Insights
Computed tomography enterography (CTE) effectively visualizes bleeding Meckel diverticulum, aiding in preoperative assessment. Key features include location, morphology, supplying vessels, and ectopic tissue, improving diagnostic accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Meckel diverticulum is a congenital anomaly that can cause significant gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Accurate preoperative diagnosis is crucial for effective surgical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the computed tomography enterography (CTE) characteristics of bleeding Meckel diverticulum.
- To identify imaging features that aid in the preoperative assessment of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of CTE images from 35 patients with Meckel diverticulum and gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Evaluation of diverticulum location, morphology, associated vascular findings, and presence of ectopic tissue.
Main Results:
- Meckel diverticulum was visualized in 33/35 patients, commonly in the right lower abdomen.
- A blind-ended tubular or saccular segment was observed, with a separated supplying vessel identified in 45.5%.
- Ectopic tissue was pathologically confirmed in 33.3% of cases, often associated with diverticular nodules.
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography enterography demonstrates specific features useful for diagnosing bleeding Meckel diverticulum.
- Recognizing these CTE characteristics can significantly improve preoperative assessment and surgical planning.
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