Duodenal Diverticulum (cont.)
How is a duodenal diverticulum treated?
If treatment is necessary, extramural diverticula can be
surgically removed from the outside of the duodenum. The diverticula also may be
inverted into the lumen of the duodenum and removed through an incision in the wall of the
duodenum. (Sometimes, the diverticulum is inverted but left attached to the wall
of the duodenum and protruding into the duodenum.)
What about intramural diverticula?
The cause of intramural diverticula is not clear; however, they are believed
to be congenital, that is, present from birth, and may occur as a developmental
abnormality of the intestine in the fetus.
Intramural
duodenal diverticula most commonly cause obstruction of the duodenum when the
diverticulum fills with ingested material. They are commonly diagnosed by barium
x-ray studies of the
upper gastrointestinal tract but also are seen with upper gastrointestinal
endoscopy.
Intramural diverticula are surgically removed through an incision in
the wall of the duodenum, although there are reports of treatment using
non-surgical, endoscopic means to incise or open up the diverticula so that
material does not collect within them.
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2008
- CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) - CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography, CAT scan) is a procedure that assists in diagnosing tumors, fractures, bony structures, and infections in the organs and tissues of the body.
- Diverticulitis (Diverticulosis) - Learn about diverticulitis (diverticular disease, diverticulosis) symtpoms like abdominal cramping, constipation, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. Causes, diagnosis, and treatment information is also included.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan) - Medical information on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used in detecting structural abnormalities of the body. Learn uses, risks, and how to prepare for an MRI scan
Latest Medical News