Laparoscopic removal of Meckel's diverticula in children.

We report on 4 children where Meckel's diverticula (MD) were excised laparoscopically. In two of the children the finding of an MD was incidental and in two it was suspected preoperatively. In three of the patients the MD was ligated by means of an "endoloop" and could be removed in a similar manner to an appendix. In one patient the MD was resected by means of a stapler. No complications occurred. Subsequent histology confirmed the complete excision of the MD. Allowing for the size and shape of an MD, we prefer to excise it by means of an endoloop. An endoloop has the advantage that it can be used through a 5 mm trocar while a stapler has the disadvantage that it requires a larger 12 mm trocar and it leaves a foreign body, i.e. metal clips behind.