title: Strangulated paraumbilical hernia-An unusual complication of a Meckel's diverticulum.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Meckel's diverticulum is the commonest congenital abnormality of the gastrointestinal tract. Most are asymptomatic but can rarely present with varies forms of intestinal obstruction.
  
  
  METHODS
  We present an unusual case of an elderly African woman with a massive strangulated paraumbilical hernia as a complication from a Meckel's diverticulum.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Meckel's diverticulum presenting as a strangulated paraumbilical hernia is uncommon and can be difficult to diagnose. It is often only found intraoperatively. Delay in referral due to poor access can potentially lead to adverse outcome.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Although uncommon, a through clinical assessment is of paramount importance and timely operative intervention must occur in order to provide the best outcome for these patients.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Edendale Hospital, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa.
authors.forename: Victor
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Kong
authors.forename: Fran
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Parkinson
authors.forename: Jack
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Barasa
authors.forename: Prasant
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Ranjan