Laparoscopy-assisted surgical management of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding secondary to Meckel's diverticulum in a pediatric patient: case report and review of literature

• Published in: Surgical laparoscopy, endoscopy & percutaneous techniques Vol. 15; no. 6; p. 374
• Main Authors: Yau, Kwok Kay, Siu, Wing Tai, Law, Bonita Ka Bo, Yip, Kam Fai, Tang, Wai Lun, Li, Michael Ka Wah
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.12.2005
• Subjects: Child; Follow-Up Studies; Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage - etiology; Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage - surgery; Humans; Laparoscopy - methods; Male; Meckel Diverticulum - complications; Meckel Diverticulum - surgery
• DOI: 10.1097/01.sle.0000191587.46367.7b
• ISSN: 1530-4515

Despite advances in endoscopy and imaging, acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding of obscure origin in children presents a challenge to pediatric gastroenterologist. Bleeding Meckel's diverticulum (MD) commonly presents with acute episode of lower GI bleeding. A conventional diagnostic algorithm includes endoscopy, technetium 99m pertechnetate scintigraphy, angiography, and exploratory laparotomy. The advent of minimal access surgery prompts the use of laparoscopy for children with obscure GI bleeding. Laparoscopy assists in the diagnosis and can offer definitive treatment of patients with MD. Herein, we report a case of pediatric GI bleeding of obscure origin associated with MD that was successfully diagnosed and managed via laparoscopy. This article updates the current management for pediatric patients with obscure GI bleeding and the role of laparoscopy in the management of MD.