Technique of scanning for Meckel's diverticulum

99mTc-pertechnetate scanning is now recognized as a useful means of detecting Meckel's diverticula. When these contain gastric mucosa and present with ulceration and bleeding, the ectopic gastric mucosa can be identified by its secretion of 99mTc-pertechnetate. However, the secretions of normal gastric and salivary glands can pool in the gut and simulate a Meckel's diverticulum. We believe the diagnostic procedure of choice to include both continuous nasogastric suction and continuous sequential gamma camera images. To support this view, we present cases illustrating 1) that 99mTc-pertechnetate can appear in the bowel within the first few minutes of administering 99mTc-pertechnetate, even in the absence of a Meckel's diverticulum; 2) that rapid sequential camera views are helpful but not definitive in distinguishing such bowel activity from a Meckel's diverticulum; and 3) that continuous nasogastric suction most successfully eliminates this interference.