Preoperative diagnosis of a perforated duodenal diverticulum

Duodenal diverticulum is a frequent incidental finding at upper gastrointestinal examination. However, perforation of a duodenal diverticulum is rare. The authors describe the 7th recorded case diagnosed preoperatively, and the 1st in which the diagnosis was recognized on plain abdominal films. Because of the high morbidity and mortality rate associated with this condition, it is important to recognize it radiologically to alert clinicians for proper management.