Meckel’s diverticulum is a common malformation in the gastrointestinal tract that can cause bleeding, obstruction, or ulcers. Symptoms include abdominal pain, vomiting, and nausea. Diagnosis involves blood and stool tests, as well as imaging tests like abdominal ultrasound and barium enema. Treatment options include laparoscopy and abdominal surgery. Early diagnosis is important to reduce the risk of complications.
Meckel’s diverticulum is a condition characterized by the presence of a pouch in the wall of the intestine. It is a common malformation in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), which occurs during fetal growth. Many individuals born with the condition are usually asymptomatic, meaning they don’t have any symptoms at all. In some patients, however, Meckel’s diverticulum or diverticula, if more than one is present, may bleed, cause obstruction, or cause ulcers to develop.
Symptoms of Meckel’s diverticulum include abdominal pain, vomiting, and nausea. The diverticulum usually produces acid, which can develop into peptic ulcer disease (PUD), a condition in which sores develop in the stomach lining due to excessive acid production in the area. If PUD is not treated early, it can perforate or cause a hole in the stomach. This will cause waste from the stomach to leak into the abdominal space and cause peritonitis, which is infection of the git. Early diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum, therefore, is often important in reducing the risk of these complications.
Many laboratory procedures are often performed to evaluate GIT. A blood test is usually done to check for infection and anemia or a low red blood cell count. Stool testing is also done to check for occult or hidden blood.
Some diagnostic imaging tests are also performed. One is abdominal ultrasound to view the entire GIT for possible blockages in the intestines caused by a Meckel’s diverticulum. A barium enema is also useful for getting a more precise look at the GIT. It is usually done by having the patient ingest a dye to effectively visualize the affected bowel.
Gastroenterologists, doctors who specialize in diseases of the GIT, usually treat patients with Meckel’s diverticulum. They can refer patients for a laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is a procedure in which surgeons make small incisions in the abdomen and insert some camera-equipped probes and other necessary equipment. Through this procedure, surgeons can usually evaluate the GIT for obstruction and bleeding, as well as initiate treatment.
In addition to the laparoscopic technique, another treatment option is abdominal surgery. It is usually done by making an incision in the abdomen, which allows surgeons to enter the git and remove the diverticulum or diverticula. The main goals of treatment are to address complications and prevent others from occurring. After removal of Meckel’s diverticulum, patients usually make a complete recovery and are free of symptoms.
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