Dysfunctional loop ileostomy after low anterior resection for rectal cancer in the presence of Meckel’s diverticulum: a case report

INTRODUCTION: A temporary protective loop ileostomy is a routine procedure to protect the anastomosis in patients who undergo low anterior resection for rectal cancer. The aim of this case report is to present a rare complication caused by Meckel’s diverticulum. CASE PRESENTATION: We describe a case of a 71-year-old white man with dysfunctional ileostomy after low anterior resection for rectal cancer due to adhesions and pressing effects of Meckel’s diverticulum near the ileostomy site, which led to volvulus of his small intestine and obstruction. As a result he underwent a supplementary operation to resolve this complication by Meckel’s diverticulum resection. CONCLUSIONS: During a low anterior resection for rectal cancer and a protective ileostomy procedure the presence of Meckel’s diverticulum should not be ignored. Our proposal is the primary resection of Meckel’s diverticulum as the best surgical choice; according to the limited international literature on such cases we report a possible alternative to a protective ileostomy by creating a conduit using Meckel’s diverticulum as a stoma.