A case of double appendix and cecum in an infant - case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Congenital Anomalies
• Gastrointestinal Development

Background:

• Congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract, such as duplication of the cecum and appendix, are uncommon.
• These anomalies are often discovered incidentally during surgical exploration for other conditions.
• Persistent cloaca and anorectal malformations represent significant challenges in pediatric surgical care.

Observation:

• A rare case of cecal and appendiceal duplication was identified in an 18-month-old female infant.
• The patient presented with a diagnosis of persistent cloaca and anorectal malformation.
• The duplication involved both the cecum and appendix, with each appendix having a distinct base attached to the cecum.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention for the anorectal malformation led to the incidental discovery of the rare congenital anomaly.
• The anatomical findings included a duplicated cecum and two separate appendices, each originating from a distinct base on the cecal wall.
• Surgical management involved appendectomies of both appendices and a sigmoid divided colostomy.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of thorough intraoperative examination, especially in complex pediatric surgical cases.
• Recognizing and managing rare congenital anomalies like cecal and appendiceal duplication is crucial for patient outcomes.
• Such findings contribute to the understanding of rare gastrointestinal malformations and inform surgical strategies.