A case report on Meckel's diverticulum: A rare congenital anomaly

Abstract

Introduction: Meckel's diverticulum (DM) is formed by all layers of the intestinal wall and is a true intestinal diverticulum. It originates from failure in obliteration and absorption of the omphalomesenteric duct during the first trimester of fetal life. DM is an embryonic trace that affects 2% to 4% of the general population. It can have its symptomatic or asymptomatic form. The appearance of symptoms suggests complications such as digestive bleeding, which is more common in children. Clinical presentation includes abdominal pain, vomiting, constipation, and bloody stools, as rectal bleeding is typically described as gooseberry or brick-colored jelly. The definitive treatment of DM is surgical. Discussion: Because DM is usually asymptomatic, particularly in adults, it may be found during a laparotomy performed for another reason. Although symptomatic Meckel can occur at any age, it is most often associated with younger ages. The clinical manifestations are varied and appear during the first decade of life. Three types of operations have been described: segmental resection-anastomosis, wedge resection and tangential stapling. Elective surgery is not recommended for cases where the diverticulum is discovered incidentally. Conclusion: It is essential that each case of Meckel's diverticulum be evaluated individually, taking into account variables such as gender, age, anesthetic risk, and diverticulum characteristics for a better prognosis and better choice of treatment. It can be symptomatic or asymptomatic, since when symptomatic, it is most often associated with complications.