Idiopathic segmental infarction of the greater omentum as a cause of acute abdomen report of two cases and review of the literature

The segmental infarction of the greater omentum is a rare cause of acute abdomen. Its etiology is uncertain although several predisposing factors have been underlined such as congenital venous anomalies, sudden change of position and substantial meal. The clinical picture simulates an appendicitis or cholecystitis, thus being difficult to make a preoperative diagnosis. However, ultrasonography or computed tomography scan can help us make this diagnosis and then we alternatively perform a conservative treatment, laparoscopic approach or resection by laparotomy. We present two cases, preoperatively diagnosed by ultrasonography and computed tomography scan that were treated by laparotomy resection. We also review the published cases in the medical Literature.