MECKEL'S DIVERTICULUM IN ADULTS: CLINICAL FEATURES, DIAGNOSTIC CHALLENGES AND SURGICAL OUTCOMES - A SERIES OF 30 CASES

Meckel’s diverticulum is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract, yet its manifestation in adults remains rare and diagnostically challenging. A cross-sectional study, included 30 adult patients male predominance, with histopathologically confirmed Meckel’s diverticulum, was performed (2016-2025). Clinical, imaging, surgical, and pathological variables were analyzed. Patients were stratified into symptomatic and asymptomatic groups. Most were symptomatic, presenting with abdominal pain and intestinal obstruction. Preoperative diagnosis was rare. Surgical treatment included diverticulectomy or segmental resection. Symptomatic diverticula were larger and more frequently associated with ectopic gastric mucosa. Morbidity was acceptable. Meckel’s diverticulum remains difficult to diagnose preoperatively in adults. Surgical management is effective, while incidental cases require individualized decisions.