Complications of Meckel's diverticulum.

This paper reviews the presentation and surgical pathology of 50 Meckel's diverticula encountered in one hospital in a 20-year period. It is concluded that in children with intestinal bleeding or a "raspberry tumour" of the umbilicus a Meckel's diverticulum is usually suspected. In adults with an acute surgical emergency Meckel's diverticulum is unlikely to be considered. However, a Meckel's diverticulum can give rise to surgical problems in many ways and at any age. In particular, the possiblity of an attached mesodiverticular band leading to obstruction must be stressed.