Small intestinal obstruction by remnants of the omphalomesenteric duct: findings on contrast enema

Abstract

Objective. We reviewed the contrast enema examinations and medical records of six patients with small intestinal obstruction due to omphalomesenteric duct remnant to evaluate for characteristic imaging findings.

Results. In five out of the six patients the point of obstruction was demonstrated on the enema; in three patients, the characteristic “beak” of a volvulus was seen, either in the terminal ileum or cecum. In three patients, there was medial deviation of the cecum.

Conclusion. The characteristic radiographic features of volvulus at the cecum or terminal ileum and medial deviation of the cecum should suggest persistence of an omphalomesenteric duct remnant as the etiology of obstruction in a child less than 2 years of age. The appearance of omphalomesenteric duct remnant obstruction on enema examination, though not specific, is characteristic and should be familiar to pediatric radiologists.