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Meckel's diverticulum |
| Definition: |
| A Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital (present from before birth) formation that consists of a small pouch called a diverticulum, located off the wall of the small bowel. The diverticulum may contain stomach or pancreatic tissue.
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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A Meckel's diverticulum is a remnant of structures within the fetal digestive tract that were not fully reabsorbed before birth. Approximately 2% of the population has a Meckel's diverticulum, but only a few develop symptoms. Symptoms include diverticulitis or bleeding in the intestine (see GI bleeding). Symptoms often occur during the first few years of life but can occur in adults as well. |
| Symptoms: |
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| Signs and tests: |
Tests:
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| Treatment: |
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Surgery to remove of the diverticulum is recommended if bleeding develops. In rare cases, the segment of small intestine which contains the diverticulum is surgically removed, and the ends of intestine sewn back together. Iron replacement may be needed to correct anemia. If bleeding is significant, blood transfusion may be necessary. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Full recovery can be expected with surgery. |
| Complications: |
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| Calling your health care provider: |
| See your health care provider promptly if your child passes blood or bloody stool or complains repeatedly of abdominal discomfort. |
Reviewed By: Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private Practice specializing in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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