The omphalomesenteric duct fibrous band as a rare cause of bowel obstruction: A case report and literature review.

INTRODUCTION AND

IMPORTANCE

The omphalomesenteric duct (OMD) is an embryonic structure that normally undergoes obliteration during embryonic development, typically not persisting after birth. Failure of complete or partial obliteration can result in a type of malformation known as OMD remnant.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a 24-year-old male patient diagnosed with bowel obstruction. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan revealed the presence of an adhesion band. During surgery, a fibrous band connecting from the umbilicus to the mesentery of terminal ileum was found and resected. Pathological investigation confirmed the presence of an OMD remnant fibrous band.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION: OMD remnant can manifest in different forms such as Meckel's diverticulum, umbilical polyp, OMD cyst, OMD fistula, and fibrous band, occurring in approximately 2 % of infants and often presenting symptoms in early childhood. These conditions rarely cause complications in adults. Complications may include obstruction, gastrointestinal bleeding, bowel perforation, and omphalitis which can present with symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, melena, lack of defecation, umbilical discharge, and dermal manifestations. Diagnostic approaches vary depending on the type of OMD remnant and associated complications, but ultrasonography and CT scan can be useful. While asymptomatic OMD remnants generally do not require further intervention, surgical treatment is the main option for complicated and symptomatic cases.

CONCLUSION

OMD remnant is a rare condition in adults that can lead to complications. Given that obstruction is a common complication of OMD remnant, OMD remnant should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with bowel obstruction.