Gastrointestinal Duplication Cysts: Diagnosis and Management
Summary
Gastrointestinal duplication cysts are uncommon congenital anomalies that may occur anywhere along the alimentary tract, from the mouth to the anus. They are defined by the presence of a well-developed smooth muscle wall and an internal mucosal lining resembling some portion of the gastrointestinal epithelium. The clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic masses detected antenatally to acute abdomen in infancy or vague abdominal discomfort in adults. Complications include obstruction, bleeding, intussusception, infection and, rarely, malignant transformation. Diagnosis relies on imaging techniques: ultrasonography remains the first-line modality, revealing a characteristic “double-wall” sign, while computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging offer detailed anatomic delineation in complex cases. Endoscopic ultrasound can further characterise cyst content and guide biopsy. Definitive management is surgical excision, traditionally via open laparotomy but increasingly by minimally invasive techniques where anatomical factors permit. Complete resection prevents recurrence and addresses potential ectopic mucosa or neoplastic change. A multidisciplinary approach, involving paediatric surgeons, radiologists and gastroenterologists, ensures accurate diagnosis, optimised timing of intervention and improved outcomes across age groups. Ongoing advances in prenatal detection, image-guided surgery and postoperative care continue to refine the therapeutic pathway and reduce morbidity.
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Gastrointestinal Duplication Cysts: Diagnosis and Management publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in gastrointestinal duplication cysts: diagnosis and management across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Duplication cyst: A congenital sac-like structure sharing a wall and blood supply with the gastrointestinal tract and lined by alimentary mucosa.
Ultrasonography (US): An imaging modality using high-frequency sound waves to visualise internal structures, often first employed in antenatal and paediatric diagnosis.
Computed tomography (CT): A cross-sectional X-ray technique providing detailed anatomical images, useful for preoperative mapping of cyst extent and relation to adjacent organs.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A radiation-free imaging method using magnetic fields and radio waves to characterise soft-tissue contrast and cyst content.
Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgical technique using small incisions and a camera to excise lesions with reduced trauma and faster recovery.
References
- Enteric duplication cysts in children: varied presentations, varied imaging findings. Insights into Imaging (2018).
- Laparoscopic resection of gastric duplication cysts in newborns: a report of five cases. BMC Surgery (2017).
- A report of two infant cases operated for jejunal duplication cyst associated with malrotation and volvulus. International Journal of Surgery Case Reports (2020).
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