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

INTRODUCTION

and

Importance

Meckel's diverticulum band is an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction in adults.

CASE PRESENTATION: 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.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION: 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.

CONCLUSION

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.