Computed tomography of complicated Meckel's diverticulum in adults.

OBJECTIVE

To review the embryology, the clinical findings and the appearance in multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) of complicated Meckel's diverticulum (DM) in adults.

CONCLUSION

The presence of an MD in a MDCT should be suspected when a blind tubular structure connected to the terminal ileum by a neck of variable size is observed. Multiplanar 2D reconstructions images and CT enterography can help in the diagnosis. In patients with symptoms of obstruction or intestinal inflammation, the possibility of a complication secondary to a MD should be considered, especially when the terminal ileum and the vermiform appendix are normal. MDCT angiography, in cases of acute gastrointestinal bleeding, can identify contrast extravasation and accumulation of blood in the MD, and could demonstrate the persistent omphalomesenteric artery, which is diagnostic of MD. Other MDCT findings such as the presence of enteroliths or associated inflammatory changes around the MD can facilitate the preoperative diagnosis of MD complications.