A rare case of intestinal obstruction caused by Meckel's diverticulum band.

Journal: Annals Of Medicine And Surgery (2012)
Published:
Abstract

and Importance: Meckel's diverticulum band is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction in adults. We report the case of a 57-year-old diabetic and hypertensive male who presented with sudden onset of vomiting and abdominal pain. Initial laboratory and imaging investigations, including an abdominal X-ray and computed tomography scan, were suggestive of an intestinal obstruction; however, these were not helpful in assigning a presumptive cause. A laparoscopic exploration was offered after a repeated abdominal X-ray showed an air-fluid level. Intraoperative findings revealed an ischemic closed loop obstructed by a fibrous band of Meckel's diverticulum. Resection and anastomosis of the bowel was performed, and the patient was discharged on day 3 post-operative with no complications. Surgical resection performed by open or laparoscopic approach is the recommended treatment for patients with symptomatic Meckel's diverticulum. Generally, a wedge resection of the Meckel's diverticulum is performed, and occasionally part of the ileum is resected by end-to-end anastomosis, as was the case in our patient. We believe early surgical intervention is crucial for a favorable outcome. Thus, surgeons should consider complicated Meckel's diverticulum in patients presenting with signs and symptoms of small bowel obstruction.

Authors
Abdullah Alzarea, Alaa Aljohani, Hanan Qabani, Ali Alzahrani, Rami Sairafi