Meckel's diverticulum is the remnant of which embryological structure and is located at which distance and side of the ileum from the ileocaecal junction?

• A Vitellointestinal (omphalomesenteric) duct; 2 feet from ileocaecal junction on antimesenteric border ✓
• B Allantois; 2 feet from ileocaecal junction on antimesenteric border
• C Vitellointestinal duct; 2 feet from ileocaecal junction on mesenteric border
• D Urachal remnant; 2 feet from ileocaecal junction on antimesenteric border

Explanation

Meckel's diverticulum is the persistence of the proximal part of the vitellointestinal (omphalomesenteric) duct, which normally obliterates by week 7 of gestation. It is a true diverticulum (contains all layers of bowel wall) located on the antimesenteric border of the ileum, approximately 2 feet (60 cm) proximal to the ileocaecal junction. The rule of 2s: 2% prevalence, 2 feet from ileocaecal valve, 2 inches long, 2 types of ectopic tissue (gastric mucosa most common, then pancreatic). Ectopic gastric mucosa secretes acid causing peptic ulceration and bleeding.

Reference: BD Chaurasia's Human Anatomy, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.