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Misdiagnosed Meckel's diverticulum with internal hernia mimicking appendicitis: A case report
Qi Zhang1, Xiu-Juan Xu2, Jun Ma1
1Department of General Surgery, Anqing Municipal Hospital, Anqing 246000, Anhui Province, China.
Meckel's diverticulum, a congenital anomaly, can cause rare but serious intestinal obstruction in adults. Early consideration in diagnosis is crucial for timely intervention.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, frequently seen in children.
- While often asymptomatic, it can lead to severe complications like intestinal obstruction, bleeding, perforation, or diverticulitis.
Observation:
- A case report details a middle-aged man initially presenting with symptoms mimicking acute appendicitis.
- Preoperative assessment revealed acute peritonitis and intestinal obstruction, leading to surgical exploration.
- Surgery confirmed an internal hernia caused by Meckel's diverticulum, resulting in intestinal obstruction and necrosis.
Findings:
- Meckel's diverticulum is an uncommon cause of small bowel obstruction in the adult population.
- The diverticulum's base showed entrapment, resembling a surgical knot within the hernial ring.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of including Meckel's diverticulum in the differential diagnosis for adult small bowel obstruction.
- Recognizing this rare etiology can prevent diagnostic delays and improve patient outcomes.
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