Traumatic rupture of the Meckel’s diverticulum due to a blunt abdominal trauma caused by a tractor rollover

Abstract

Introduction: The Meckel’s diverticulum is a common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract that rarely causes symptoms. Symptomatic patients usually present with haemorrhage, obstruction or inflammation of the diverticulum, however, perforation, specially following a blunt abdominal trauma is very rare. We present a rare case of an isolated diverticular rupture due to a crushing abdominal trauma. Case Report: A 36-year old male presented with abdominal pain after a rollover accident, in which his abdomen got stuck underneath the structure of an industrial tractor. Initial physical examination showed bruises on the hypogastric region without signs of peritonitis or haemodynamic instability. Image examination didn’t show clear signs of intraperitoneal trauma. Due to the worsening of the patient, an exploratory laparotomy was performed and revealed blood and faecal content in the peritoneal cavity, consequence of a Meckel’s diverticulum rupture. Conclusion: The rupture of the Meckel’s diverticulum is a rare cause of peritonitis following blunt abdominal trauma. A prompt surgical decision with the excision of the diverticulum is essential to control de damage in this patients