Endoscopic approach to Meckel’s diverticulum in pediatrics: where has been the focus in the past decade?

Abstract

Aim The aim of this review was to assess the use of laparoscopic techniques in the diagnosis and management of Meckel diverticulum (MD) in pediatric patients in the past decade through relevant literature published from 2013 to 2023. Methods Using PubMed and Embase, articles were identified and selected for application of endoscopic techniques in relation to MD in pediatrics to understand the nuances for this pathology. Results During the past decade a total of 34 studies published were identified and analyzed. The studies highlight the challenges in diagnosing MD and introduce the role of double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) as a diagnostic tool. Studies comparing outcomes between laparoscopic and open surgical approaches have explored rates of post-operative complications and mortality, with laparoscopy offering the benefit of shorter hospital stays. Focusing on case reports and series, the demographics, morphological features and the presence of complications have shown to significantly influence the choice of surgical approach. Conclusions Endoscopic-related approaches in the past decade have mainly focused on DBE diagnostics and outcomes, whereas few studies have focused on new techniques or endoscopic surgery-related innovative approaches.