Meckel's diverticulectomy

Alternative names:

excision of Meckel's diverticulum

Definition:

Surgical removal of an abnormal pouch (diverticulum) extending off of the small intestine (Meckel's diverticulum) that can become inflamed or infected.

Description:

While the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), an incision is made in the right side of the lower abdomen. The small intestine is found and the Meckel's diverticulum is removed. The intestine is repaired and the incision is closed.

Indications:

Inflammation or infection of Meckel's diverticulum (diverticulitis) can be mistaken for appendicitis. The most common symptom of Meckel's diverticulitis is painless bleeding from the rectum. The stools may contain fresh blood or may look black and tarry.