A congenital sac or blind pouch found in the ileum derived from an intact yolk stalk. Sometimes it is continued to the umbilicus as a cord or a tube forming a fistulous opening at the umbilicus.

The condition is a congenital disorder resulting in failure of the duct that runs from the end of the ileum to the umbilicus and yolk sac, the vitelline duct, to occlude completely by degeneration during fetal development.

In adults, manifestations of intestinal obstruction, such as cramps and vomiting may occur due to adhesions, intussusception, angulation from retained foreign bodies, the twisting of the bowel on itself (volvulus), tumors, or incarceration in a hernia. Acute inflammation of the Meckel's diverticulum may occur. Manifestations of diverticulitis include: fever, nausea, and pain; left lower quadrant abdominal tenderness; and alternating constipation with diarrhea. Perforation may occur, and signs and symptoms of peritonitis may develop. These manifestations include: intense, severe pain; weakness; clammy cold skin; abdominal distention; decreased bowel motility; hypotension; tachycardia; high fever; and signs of dehydration.

History and physical examination along with blood tests, urinalysis, and fecal occult blood tests may be performed. A computed tomography (CT) scan may be helpful. Diagnosis is difficult and is usually based on manifestations. A small bowel barium x-ray may be helpful to visualize Meckel's diverticulum. However, a barium enema or sigmoidoscopy may be dangerous during the active inflammatory period.

A bleeding diverticulum with a hardened area in the ileum may require resection of that part of the bowel and the diverticulum. If there is no area of hardened tissue, resection of the diverticulum, only may be necessary. The treatment for mild diverticulitis includes prevention of constipation and fighting infection. Stool softeners, antibiotics, pain medication, and antispasmodics may be used. In acute diverticulitis, oral food and liquid are contraindicated, and intravenous (IV) fluids and broad-spectrum antibiotics are administered. After repeated attacks, a bowel resection may be required. If a severe attack begins, a diverting colostomy is performed first, then a second operation with a reanastomosis is done after all infection is cleared up.

With surgery, full recovery can be expected. Strangulation of a Meckel's diverticulum may cause intestinal obstruction. Intestinal obstruction is a serious complication resulting in twisting and gangrene, which can be fatal if early surgery is not instituted.

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