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Meckel's Diverticulum

A congenital diverticulum of the ileum that can be a major cause of gastrointestinal bleeding and obstruction.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Meckel's Diverticulum?

Meckel's diverticulum is the most common congenital gastrointestinal anomaly, occurring in about 2% of the population. It is located on the antimesenteric border of the ileum, 60–100 cm proximal to the ileocecal valve. It is symptomatic twice as often in boys as in girls.

The diverticulum may contain heterotopic gastric or pancreatic tissue. Acid secretion by heterotopic gastric tissue causes mucosal ulceration and gastrointestinal bleeding. In children, painless bright-red or jelly-like lower GI bleeding is the most common presentation.

Other complications include intestinal obstruction (intussusception or band), diverticulitis (mimicking appendicitis), and perforation. Technetium-99m pertechnetate (Meckel) scintigraphy is important in diagnosis; treatment is surgical resection.

Symptoms

Painless lower GI bleeding (most common)
Bright-red or dark bloody stool
Abdominal pain and tenderness
Signs of intestinal obstruction
Anemia (chronic bleeding)
Nausea and vomiting
Palpable abdominal mass (diverticulitis)

Risk Factors

Male sex
Children under 2 years
Presence of heterotopic tissue
Family history of congenital anomaly
History of intussusception
Unexplained GI bleeding

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Painless bright-red rectal bleeding in a child
  • Unexplained anemia
  • Chronic abdominal pain and vomiting
  • Signs of intestinal obstruction
  • Atypical course resembling appendicitis

Treatment Methods

01
Complete blood count, hemoglobin, and stool occult blood
02
Meckel scintigraphy (Tc-99m pertechnetate)
03
Laparoscopic or open diverticulum resection
04
Reduction of intussusception or band
05
Transfusion support (bleeding cases)
06
Postoperative antibiotic therapy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.