Complicated Littre hernias

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is the most prevalent congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract with an estimated prevalence ranging from 2% to 4%. The diverticulum is a remnant of the vitelline duct, which leads to the formation of a true diverticulum containing all the layers of the small intestine. The condition is usually clinically silent; however, it can present with unusual symptoms and signs and therefore can result in a delayed diagnosis, particularly in adults. The aim of this study is to review the most updated literature reporting Littre hernias (LHs) in adults, the diagnostic approach, and its subsequent management. This is a literature review, complemented by an unusual clinical case of an adult who presented with a complicated umbilical LH which required emergency surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature reviews using PubMed, Web of Science, and other reliable sources use the possible combinations of the following keywords: Meckel's diverticulum, Littre hernia, umbilical hernia, adults, complications, surgical treatment. RESULTS: The herniation of an MD through a potential opening in the abdominal wall is defined as an LH, representing a rare complication of the diverticula. Due to their rarity, they remain underdiagnosed, often leading to suboptimal treatment with substantial morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSION: An MD, despite being a rare clinical entity in adults, can theoretically be found in any hernia, with patients experiencing a wide range of potential complications.