Meckel's diverticulum complicating pregnancy. Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction: Symptomatic Meckel's diverticulum is a rare entity in pregnancy. The clinical presentation is variable and preoperative diagnosis is hampered by the various anatomical and physiological changes of pregnancy that can obscure serious underlying intra-abdominal pathology.

Case report: We report a 14-year-old who presented at 32 weeks' gestation with worsening abdominal pain, distension, and leukocytosis. Abdominal computed tomography showed a pelvic fluid collection with extraluminal air suggestive of a perforated viscus and mechanical small bowel obstruction with features of a closed-loop obstruction. Explorative laparotomy revealed a perforated Meckel's diverticulum. Multiple adhesions between the appendix and the perforated diverticulum, and phlegmon sequelae led to the incarceration of an adjacent segment of ileum.

Discussion: Meckel's diverticulum in pregnancy can have serious consequences. There is a high rate of perforation due to delayed diagnosis and surgical intervention. Our report and review of the literature suggest that a high index of clinical suspicion can lead to earlier diagnosis and help to keep maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality to a minimum.