Meckel's Diverticulum Imaging

Abstract

Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital malformation in which ectopic gastric mucosa is present in a slight bulge of the lower part of the ileum. It is the most common cause of gastrointestinal bleeding in children and requires surgical repair. It is characterized by the Rule of Twos in that it occurs in 2% of the population and the symptoms usually appear before the age of two. The diverticulum is usually 2 in long and located within 2 ft of the ileocecal valve. Meckel's diverticulum is difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms are nonspecific. Meckel's diverticulum scintigraphy with 99mTc-pertechnetate has an accuracy of 90% and is the best procedure for the diagnosis of the condition. The study requires strict patient preparation and precise technique.