Purpose
Enteric duplication cysts (EDCs) are rare congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract. This study aimed to delineate the clinical, anatomical, and pathological spectrum of EDCs based on a 40-year single-center experience.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted of 45 pediatric patients who underwent surgical treatment for EDCs at a single institution between 1985 and 2023. Clinical records, imaging studies, and pathological reports were analyzed.
Results
The study included 28 males and 17 females, with a median age at surgery of 4.7 months. Most patients (75.6%) underwent surgery before 2 years of age. The ileum was the most common location (57.8%), followed by the jejunum (11.1%) and ileocecal valve (11.1%). Vomiting (46.7%) was the most common presenting symptom. Emergency surgery was required in 28.9% of cases because of complications such as volvulus or intussusception. Preoperative imaging using ultrasonography (US) and/or computed tomography resulted in a correct diagnosis in 34 of 45 patients (75.6%), with EDCs correctly identified in 30 patients (66.7%), frequently based on the characteristic “double wall sign” observed on US. Histopathological examination identified heterotopic gastric mucosa in 61.4% of evaluable cases. Postoperative outcomes were generally favorable, with a median hospital stay of 7.5 days.
Conclusion
EDCs are rare congenital anomalies that are primarily diagnosed during early childhood. The ileum is the most frequent site of involvement, and clinical presentation is often related to acute complications. Prompt and complete surgical excision remains the definitive treatment and leads to favorable short-term postoperative outcomes, with no recurrence observed during the available follow-up period.