Food ileus secondary to citrus fruit associated with a Meckel’s diverticulum: a case report and review of the literature

The case of an 11-year-old boy with an orange-associated ileus in the setting of a mesodiverticular band from a Meckel’s diverticulum is reported herein. Computed tomography showed a small bowel feces sign. He underwent laparoscopic-assisted surgery, and intraoperative findings revealed a Meckel’s diverticulum associated with a mesodiverticular band distal to dilated small bowel. After resection of the Meckel’s diverticulum and inspection of the intestinal contents proximal to the obstruction, it was apparent that undigested food material was impacted proximal to the obstruction. Upon questioning postoperatively, it was revealed that the patient ate two citrus fruits with locular membranes several days prior to his clinical presentation. It was speculated that the combination of the citrus fruit impaction with the Meckel’s band led to his obstruction. He was discharged uneventfully on postoperative Day 13. It is important to avoid eating large quantities of fruit rich in fiber and also to masticate well.