A rare case of chicken wishbone in Meckel’s diverticulum causing partial perforation and diverticulitis

TL;DR

A rare case of a chicken wishbone lodged in a Meckel’s diverticulum caused partial perforation and required urgent surgery.

Contribution

This case report presents an exceptionally rare foreign body complication in Meckel’s diverticulum.

Findings

A 55-year-old male had a chicken wishbone causing perforation and diverticulitis in Meckel’s diverticulum.

Surgical removal of the diverticulum led to a full recovery.

Foreign bodies in Meckel’s diverticulum are rare but can mimic appendicitis and require prompt diagnosis and surgery.

Abstract

Meckel’s diverticulum (MD), a rare congenital abnormality, can lead to issues like diverticulitis and bleeding. Foreign bodies in MD are even rarer, causing vague symptoms and perforation, requiring urgent surgery. This case report highlights a patient with a foreign body in MD, focusing on clinical presentation and management. A 55-year-old male presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Computed tomography scan revealed a foreign body perforating the small bowel. Exploratory laparotomy found a partially perforated MD with a foreign body. Diverticulectomy was performed, and the patient recovered, discharged the next day. Foreign bodies in MD are exceedingly rare and can cause inflammation, infection, and perforation, mimicking appendicitis. Diagnosis is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms, with imaging and clinical evaluation crucial. Surgical intervention, like diverticulectomy, is primary. Early diagnosis and prompt surgery are critical in managing MD complicated by foreign bodies, ensuring favorable outcomes. This report underscores symptom recognition and effective management strategies.

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