Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2026
07:33
A Mouse Model of Intestinal Partial Obstruction
Published on: March 5, 2018
Traumatic abdominal hernia caused by cough, presenting with intestinal obstruction
E P Lund1, M Bergenfeldt, F Burcharth
1Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Copenhagen University Hospital at Herlev, Herlev Ringvej 75, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark. pierrelund@hotmail.com
Summary
A traumatic abdominal hernia developed after severe coughing in a patient with chronic cough. Surgical repair was necessary due to intestinal obstruction caused by the abdominal wall defect.
Area of Science:
- General Surgery
- Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
- Gastrointestinal Surgery
Background:
- Chronic cough can predispose individuals to increased intra-abdominal pressure.
- Abdominal wall defects can arise spontaneously or due to trauma.
- Intestinal obstruction is a serious complication of abdominal hernias.
Observation:
- A patient with a history of chronic cough presented with a large left lateral abdominal herniation.
- The herniation occurred after a severe coughing episode.
- The patient experienced symptoms of intestinal obstruction.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed a significant peritoneal defect.
- The defect allowed herniation of a substantial portion of the intestine.
- The hernia was located on the left lateral abdominal wall.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for severe abdominal wall hernias to develop secondary to chronic cough.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing obstructive hernias.
- Understanding the biomechanics of coughing and abdominal pressure is important for preventing such injuries.
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