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Meckel's Diverticulitis
Meckel's diverticulitis, an inflammation of a congenital small intestinal pouch, can cause abdominal pain, fever, and bleeding. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott offers comprehensive care-from diagnosis with imaging and Meckel scans to personalized medical and minimally invasive surgical treatments.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Meckel's Diverticulitis?
Meckel's diverticulitis is inflammation or infection of a Meckel's diverticulum-a small pouch in the small intestine that you're born with. Though most people never know they have this pouch, it can become irritated or infected and lead to significant abdominal symptoms.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Congenital pouch (Meckel's diverticulum present from birth)
Bacterial overgrowth and subsequent infection in the pouch
Complications such as ulcers, bleeding, or intestinal obstruction
Age (most frequently seen in children and young adults but possible at any age)
Signs and Symptoms
Abdominal pain around the belly button or lower right quadrant
Fever and chills
Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal bloating
Dark or tarry stools and/or rectal bleeding
Constipation or visible swelling of the abdomen
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He asks detailed questions about your epigastric and periumbilical pain, bowel changes, fever, and any family history of gastrointestinal issues.
Blood Tests
We check white blood cell count and inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) to assess for infection or inflammation.
Imaging Studies
CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis to visualize an inflamed diverticulum, locate any abscess or obstruction, and rule out alternative diagnoses.
Abdominal ultrasound to detect localized thickening of the small-intestinal wall or fluid collections near the diverticulum.
Meckel Scan
A Technetium-99m pertechnetate scan highlights ectopic gastric mucosa within the pouch, providing a definitive identification of Meckel's diverticulum.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Meckel's Diverticulitis.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications
Eat small, frequent meals to reduce pressure on the intestine
Follow a low-fiber diet during acute flare-ups, then gradually reintroduce fiber
Stay well hydrated-drink plenty of water throughout the day
Avoid spicy, greasy, and highly processed foods that can irritate the gut
2. Medications
Course of targeted antibiotics to clear infection
Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for symptom control
Anti-inflammatory agents to reduce local swelling
Stool softeners or mild laxatives to prevent straining
3. Minimally Invasive and Surgical Options
Laparoscopic resection: removal of the diverticulum through small incisions
Robotic-assisted surgery: enhanced precision with faster recovery times
Open surgical resection: reserved for complicated or recurrent cases
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the ICD-10 code for Meckel's diverticulitis?
The ICD-10 code is K57.1 - Small intestine diverticulitis, without perforation or abscess.
How do I know if my pain is from Meckel's diverticulitis?
Pain near your belly button or lower right side, especially with fever, nausea, or bloating, are key signs. Dr. Scott confirms the diagnosis with imaging tests and a Meckel scan.
Can Meckel's diverticulitis heal without surgery?
Some mild cases improve with antibiotics, dietary changes, and close monitoring. However, recurrent or complicated cases often require surgical removal of the pouch.
What is acute Meckel's diverticulitis?
Acute Meckel's diverticulitis refers to a sudden infection or inflammation of the diverticulum, causing sharp abdominal pain, fever, and tenderness.
How long is recovery after laparoscopic surgery?
Most patients go home within 1-2 days and return to normal activities in about 1-2 weeks, depending on their overall health and the extent of the procedure.
Can diet help prevent Meckel's diverticulitis flare-ups?
A balanced diet high in fiber, plenty of water, and avoiding spicy or greasy foods can support gut health and reduce the risk of irritation or infection in the diverticulum.
Do children get Meckel's diverticulitis?
Yes. Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital condition and can cause unexplained bleeding or inflammation in children, especially under age 10.
