Reminiscing on Remnants: Imaging of Meckel Diverticulum and Its Complications in Adults

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2017 Nov;209(5):W287-W296. doi: 10.2214/AJR.17.18088. Epub 2017 Aug 23.

Abstract

Objective: Meckel diverticulum may become symptomatic if it is complicated by hemorrhage, intestinal obstruction, diverticulitis, or tumor. Although classically described in children, it is often missed in adults because of lack of suspicion and difficulty in detection. The purpose of this article is to review the imaging findings and management of Meckel diverticulum and its complications.

Conclusion: Although it is infrequently encountered incidentally, Meckel diverticulum should be considered especially when interpreting examinations for abdominal pain, small-bowel obstruction, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Keywords: Meckel diverticulum; Meckel scan; congenital diverticulum; diverticulitis; gastrointestinal hemorrhage; imaging; intestinal obstruction.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Meckel Diverticulum / complications*
  • Meckel Diverticulum / diagnostic imaging*
  • Meckel Diverticulum / therapy