[Juxtapapillary duodenal diverticulum--pathologic findings]

Juxtapapillary duodenal diverticula are present in a clinically symptomatic or asymptomatic form. Their resection is bedevilled by a relatively high operative risk. On the basis of our own observations and a review of the literature a discussion is presented of the problem as to whether accidentally found asymptomatic diverticula are an indication for resection. Our investigations, based on autopsy findings, did not reveal any pathological process in the liver, pancreas or biliary ducts in patients with asymptomatic duodenal diverticula. Moreover, there was no indication of diverticulitis or peridiverticulitis. Hence, no correlation was found between asymptomatic duodenal diverticula and pathological changes in the upper abdominal organs. Consequently, resection is justified only for symptomatic diverticula.