Combination of Cattell-Braasch and Kocher maneuver in laparotomy for diverticular resection in the third part of the duodenum: a case report

A duodenal diverticulum is an outpouching of all or partial layers of the duodenal wall. Duodenal diverticulum complications such as bleeding, diverticulitis, pancreatitis, choledochal occlusion, and perforation can develop. Localization of the diverticulum in the third part of the duodenum is rare. Surgical intervention with a combination of Cattell-Braasch and Kocher maneuvers in laparotomy is currently emerging as a viable option. CASE PRESENTATION: The authors report a case of a 68-year-old male with chief complaints of black stool and recurring epigastric pain. Barium follow-through showed diverticulum at the third part of the duodenum. Surgery with a combination of Cattell-Braasch and Kocher’s maneuvers using a linear stapler was successful, and there were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Postoperative barium follow-through showed no diverticulum residue. The patient had no more complaints of black stools nor epigastric pain. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Symptomatic duodenal diverticulum is a rare case with a very small chance of complications. Due to its lack of specific symptoms, imaging examinations play a better role in diagnosis. Surgical intervention is also rarely performed due to the small chance of complications. Diverticulectomy with the use of Cattell-Braasch and the extended Kocher maneuver results in better duodenum exposure, and the usage of a linear stapler also made the surgery safer and quicker to perform. CONCLUSION: The authors propose that a diverticulectomy of the third part of the duodenum performed with a combination of the Cattell-Braasch and Kocher maneuvers with the use of a linear stapler as a safe procedure.