Introduction
Meckel diverticulum is the most common congenital abnormality of the small intestine
It is caused by an incomplete obliteration of the vitelline duct (ie, omphalomesenteric duct).
Originally described by Fabricius Hildanus in 1598
Johann Friedrich Meckel established its embryonic origin in 1809 and it is now known by his name
Midgut elongates faster than trunk: herniates into umbilical cord in 6th week
Midgut loop connected to yolk sac via a yolk stalk
Cranial limb of loop: jejunum and most of ileum
Caudal limb: distal ileum, cecum, ascending colon, proximal part of transverse colon
Series of three 90º counterclockwise rotations around the superior mesenteric artery
Sequential return of the gut to the trunk
