Laparoscopic evaluation in incarcerated groin hernia following spontaneous reduction

The authors report their initial experience of diagnostic laparoscopy in a baby presenting with small bowel obstruction secondary to strangulated groin hernia. Laparoscopy was accomplished through ipsilateral hernia sac to determine the viability of the incarcerated bowel segment under general anesthesia, following spontaneous reduction under general anesthesia. Diagnostic laparoscopy showed edematous intestinal segments but no sign of necrotic bowel or indirect findings of intestinal perforation. Diagnostic laparotomies may be useful in selected cases preventing an unnecessary laparotomies.