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Acute Meckel's diverticulum in a senior patient
O Campione1, V Tonini, M Cervellera
1Dipartimento di Scienze Chirurgiche ed Anestesiologiche, Università degli Studi, Bologna.
Abstract:
Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital abnormality of the intestinal tract, occurring in 2% of autoptic studies. The case of an 85-year-old man referred to the Emergency Surgery Unit for intestinal obstruction and lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding is reported. Surgical exploration revealed a complicated Meckel's diverticulum full of coproliths, immersed in pus and blood. Examination of the resected diverticulum showed necrotic diverticulitis in the absence of ectopic gastric or pancreatic tissues.
Insights
A complicated Meckel's diverticulum caused intestinal obstruction and bleeding in an 85-year-old man. Surgical removal revealed necrotic diverticulitis, highlighting a rare presentation of this common congenital abnormality.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Congenital Abnormalities
Background:
- Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital intestinal anomaly, found in 2% of autopsies.
- Complications can include obstruction, bleeding, and inflammation, though often asymptomatic.
Observation:
- An 85-year-old male presented with intestinal obstruction and lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Surgical exploration identified a Meckel's diverticulum impacted with fecaliths, pus, and blood.
Findings:
- Resection of the diverticulum confirmed necrotic diverticulitis.
- No ectopic gastric or pancreatic tissues were found within the resected specimen.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for Meckel's diverticulum to cause severe complications even in advanced age.
- Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for managing symptomatic Meckel's diverticulum.
- Understanding the varied presentations is vital for accurate diagnosis and treatment.