Meckel Diverticulum

Meckel's Diverticulum

Meckel's diverticulum is a small pouch that forms in the lower part of the intestine, just beyond the end of the small intestine. It is a birth defect that happens when part of the intestine does not develop correctly while a baby is in the womb. This condition is rarely serious, but can cause pain and discomfort in some people.

Meckel's diverticulum can be either present at birth or can develop later in life. Common symptoms of a Meckel's diverticulum include abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Diagnosis is usually made through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests such as x-rays.

Treatment of a Meckel's diverticulum depends on its size and location. Small diverticula do not usually require any treatment, while larger ones may need to be surgically removed. In rare cases, the pouch may need to be drained or repaired in order to prevent potentially serious complications.

What Causes a Meckel's Diverticulum?

Meckel's diverticulum is a birth defect of the gastrointestinal tract that occurs when the fetus is in the womb. During the third to fourth month of fetal development, a section of the small intestine that is supposed to close off fails to do so, leaving a sac at the end of the small intestine. This sac is what becomes a Meckel's diverticulum.

What Are the Symptoms of a Meckel's Diverticulum?

In most cases, a Meckel's diverticulum does not cause any symptoms and is only discovered during a routine examination or other medical procedure. However, in some cases, the pouch may become inflamed, irritated, or infected, leading to the following symptoms:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rectal bleeding
• Weight loss
• Fever

How Is a Meckel's Diverticulum Diagnosed?

Meckel's diverticulum can be diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests such as:

• X-ray
• CT scan
• Ultrasound
• MRI

How Is a Meckel's Diverticulum Treated?

Treatment of a Meckel's diverticulum will depend on its size and location. Smaller ones may not require any treatment, but larger ones may need to be surgically removed. In rare cases, the pouch may need to be drained or repaired in order to prevent potentially serious complications.