EP.TU.637To Resect or Not to Resect? Incidental Meckel’s Diverticulum at Colon Cancer Resection

Case An 85-year-old man underwent elective resection for a large proximal transverse colon tumour. At the time of this open extended right hemicolectomy, a Meckel’s diverticulum was identified in the ileum, but not resected considering the age and character of the diverticulum. However, on the sixth post-operative day, he developed small bowel obstructive symptoms which required a reoperation. It was found that the cause of obstruction was identified as a long pedunculated Meckel’s diverticulum wrapped 15 centimetres proximal to the anastomosis. Considering the general condition of the patient and co-morbidities, resection of the Meckel’s diverticulum and loop ileostomy was performed. The patient has now recovered and is being followed up in the community awaiting stoma reversal. Background Occurring in 2% of the population, Meckel’s diverticulum is the most common congenital gastrointestinal malformation. Complications of a Meckel’s diverticulum include obstruction, haemorrhage, perforation, diverticulitis and intussusception. Most complications manifest in childhood and are less likely to occur in adults. The indication for resection of incidental Meckel’s diverticula in an adults is still debated amongst surgeons. Discussion and Conclusion This case demonstrates an unfortunate scenario of a post-operative complication from an abnormality detected at the time of the index surgery. A recent systematic review has shown that evidence in literature remains controversial for resection in asymptomatic Meckel’s Diverticulum. There are even scoring systems to facilitate decisions in such situations. This case offers an interesting perspective where morbidity may have been reduced if resection was undertaken.