Perforation of a Meckel's diverticulum by a foreign body.

Perforation of a Meckel's diverticulum by a sharp object often presents with subtle nonspecific abdominal findings. A 53-year-old man had features resembling acute appendicitis and right ureteral obstruction. At laparotomy a wooden toothpick was found perforating a Meckel's diverticulum. The diagnosis of complicated Meckel's diverticulum should be considered when there is typical right lower quadrant pain or the patient is known to have ingested a sharp foreign body. The mortality resulting from perforation is low. The authors discuss other complications of Meckel's diverticulum.