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Plain film identification of inverted Meckel diverticulum
J F Johnson1, R J Lorenzetti, E T Ballard
1Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-2899.
Abstract:
Inversion is a potentially serious complication of Meckel diverticulum. Since inversion provokes gangrene and small bowel obstruction, diagnosis by enteroclysis or imaging studies can conflict with the need for timely surgical intervention. We have noted that plain films may predict this lesion when a solitary mottled polypoid lesion occupies the ileum at the site of a small bowel obstruction.
Insights
Inversion of Meckel diverticulum can cause gangrene and obstruction. Plain abdominal X-rays may predict this serious complication by showing a specific polypoid lesion in the ileum, aiding timely surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Meckel diverticulum is a congenital anomaly of the small intestine.
- Inversion of a Meckel diverticulum is a rare but serious complication.
- This complication can lead to bowel obstruction and gangrene, necessitating urgent surgical management.
Observation:
- Diagnosis of inverted Meckel diverticulum can be challenging, often delaying surgical intervention.
- Conventional imaging like enteroclysis may not always be definitive or timely.
- A specific finding on plain abdominal films was observed in cases of intestinal obstruction due to this condition.
Findings:
- Plain abdominal X-rays can predict inverted Meckel diverticulum.
- The predictive sign is a solitary mottled polypoid lesion within the ileum.
- This lesion is located at the site of small bowel obstruction.
Implications:
- Early identification of this specific plain film finding can expedite diagnosis.
- Timely surgical intervention can be facilitated, potentially preventing complications like gangrene.
- This highlights the continued utility of plain radiography in specific acute abdominal scenarios.