Patent omphalomesenteric duct opening into the vermiform appendix

Abstract

Introduction: Persistent omphalomesenteric duct anomalies are very rare the world over. These anomalies are in a spectrum and present in various forms, ranging from the infamous Meckel's diverticulum to a fibrous non-patent connection between the umbilicus and the distal ileum, to a patent connection between the umbilicus and the intestine, the patent omphalomesenteric duct. Case Report: A two-month-old female child who was born with a membrane-covered umbilical mass which after sometime, became two swellings with intestinal epithelial covering and fistulous openings. At surgical exploration, she was discovered to have a patent omphalomesenteric duct which opened into the appendix, as well as intestinal malrotation abnormality. Conclusion: The occurrence of patent omphalomesenteric duct opening into the vermiform appendix is a rare occurrence and there should be high index of suspicion when there is failure of healing of the umbilical stump and there is discharge of intestinal contents via the umbilicus.