[Complicated Meckel's diverticulum].

BACKGROUND: In this study we present our experience in the surgical treatment of complicated Meckel's diverticulum.

METHODS: The data of eight patients who underwent surgery due to complications of Meckel's diverticulum between 1994-2001 was retrospectively assessed.

RESULTS: There were six males and two females with a mean age of 31 years (range 13 to 65). Preoperative diagnoses were acute surgical abdomen in six and incarcerated inguinal hernias in two patients. Intraoperative diagnoses were as follows; Littre's hernia in two, diverticulitis in two, perforation of the diverticulum in one and intestinal obstruction in three patients (there was a band extending from diverticulum to the umbilicus in two patients and a mesodiverticular band in the remaining one). While diverticulectomies were performed in five patients, three had small bowel resections. The mean diameter of the diverticula was 2.3 cm (range 2 to 4) and the mean length was 3.5 cm (range 3 to 8). Postoperative intestinal obstruction was observed in one patient who had underwent diverticulectomy and subsequently a small bowel resection was performed.

CONCLUSION: Being aware of the complications of the Meckel's diverticulum is necessary in correct timing of the surgery and selecting the proper incision in patients with acute abdomen. This will result in decreased morbidity.