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Laparoscopic treatment of Meckel's diverticulum perforation caused by a chicken bone. A case report
Abstract:
We describe an uncommon case of a Meckel's diverticulum perforation by a chicken bone in a patient with symptoms of acute appendicitis. Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital abnormality of the gastrointestinal tract. The incidence is approximately 2% of the population. Most patients are asymptomatic, only 4-16% presenting complications, including bleeding, obstruction, and diverticulitis. The perforation due to a foreign body is a very infrequent complication and may have a bad prognosis in case of a delayed diagnosis. Only in a few cases, a careful evaluation of the CT scan leads to correct preoperative diagnosis. Definitive treatment is surgical intervention and should not be delayed in patients with peritonitis. Laparoscopy is a safe diagnostic and therapeutic tool to treat complicated Meckel's diverticulum. In our case, a stapled laparoscopic diverticulectomy has been performed with an excellent outcome. KEY WORDS: Laparoscopy, Meckel's diverticulum, Perforation.
Insights
A rare case of Meckel
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum, the most common congenital gastrointestinal abnormality (2% incidence), often remains asymptomatic.
- Complications like bleeding, obstruction, and diverticulitis occur in 4-16% of cases.
- Perforation by foreign bodies is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic challenges and potential for poor prognosis if delayed.
Observation:
- A patient presented with symptoms mimicking acute appendicitis.
- Imaging (CT scan) evaluation was crucial for preoperative diagnosis.
- The underlying cause was identified as a chicken bone perforating a Meckel's diverticulum.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention is the definitive treatment for complicated Meckel's diverticulum, especially with peritonitis.
- Laparoscopy offers a safe and effective diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
- A stapled laparoscopic diverticulectomy was successfully performed in this case.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering Meckel's diverticulum in appendicitis-like presentations.
- Emphasizes prompt surgical management to prevent complications.
- Demonstrates the utility of laparoscopic techniques in managing rare Meckel's diverticulum complications.
