Omental infarction: risk factors in children

Abstract

Purpose: A series of 4 cases of omental infarction are analyzed. It is shown that obesity, as well as idiosyncratic anatomy, are factors in the development of this rare clinicopathologic entity.

Methods: The authors reviewed the preoperative and operative records of all patients.

Results: All of the cases of omental infarction were seen in obese children. Other than persistent right-sided abdominal pain, there were no other signs or symptoms. None of the patients had an elevated white blood cell count, and none had fever.

Conclusions: Computed tomography scanning is noted to be helpful in making the diagnosis. Laparoscopy is noted to be the procedure of choice, because standard incisions may preclude one from a proper exploration.