Misdiagnosed Meckel's diverticulum with internal hernia mimicking appendicitis: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND Meckel's diverticulum is a common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, with a higher incidence rate in children under 7 years old. The condition is characteristically asymptomatic but may become a clinical concern when complications such as intestinal obstruction, bleeding, perforation, or diverticulitis precipitate acute abdominal presentations. CASE SUMMARY This report describes the case of a middle-aged man initially suspected of having acute appendicitis, which rapidly progressed to acute peritonitis with concomitant intestinal obstruction observed during preoperative assessment. Surgical exploration confirmed the diagnosis of Meckel's diverticulum-induced internal hernia, accompanied by intestinal obstruction and necrosis. In addition, the hernial ring base exhibited entrapment resembling a surgical knot. CONCLUSION Meckel's diverticulum is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction in adults, and it should be considered in a differential diagnosis.