Ileal prolapse through a patent omphalomesenteric duct: a case report.

INTRODUCTION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: A patent omphalomesenteric duct is a rare presentation of omphalomesenteric duct remnants. Early diagnosis is essential to avoid subsequent complications. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a 14-day-old male patient misdiagnosed as having an iatrogenic injury to the umbilicus. After careful history-taking and a clinical examination that showed a Y-shaped ileal prolapse through the umbilicus and the absence of any signs of trauma, the diagnosis of a patent omphalomesenteric duct complicated by ileal prolapse was made, and the patient was managed in our department with emergency segmental resection of the involved loop. The postoperative course was unremarkable, and the patient was free of symptoms 3 months after surgery. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: A patent omphalomesenteric duct classically presents as a moist umbilicus with intestinal discharge through the umbilicus. In the absence of experience and a proper physical examination, it can be mistaken for other benign umbilical lesions, such as a granuloma. In such circumstances, a complication may occur, such as ileal prolapse through the patent omphalomesenteric duct. CONCLUSION: A patent omphalomesenteric duct is not well recognized among healthcare workers in rural settings, leading to delayed diagnosis and subsequent complications such as ileal prolapse. With appropriate management, outcomes are satisfactory.