Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026
10:52
Laparoscopic Repair of Para-Esophageal Hernia Using Absorbable Biosynthetic Mesh
Published on: September 11, 2021
Spontaneous internal herniation through the greater omentum
Deng-Ho Yang1, Wei-Chou Chang, Wu-Hsien Kuo
1Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Armed-Forces Taichung General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China.
Abdominal Imaging
|September 16, 2008
Summary
Transomental hernia, the rarest internal hernia, can cause acute intestinal obstruction. This case highlights a 74-year-old male diagnosed with transomental hernia after presenting with peritonitis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Anatomy
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Internal hernias are uncommon causes of intestinal obstruction.
- Transomental hernias are exceedingly rare, representing less than 1% of all internal hernias.
- These hernias often lead to acute small bowel obstruction with strangulation.
Observation:
- A 74-year-old male presented with peritonitis, a severe abdominal inflammation.
- Imaging studies suggested internal hernia-induced intestinal obstruction with strangulation.
- The patient underwent urgent exploratory laparotomy for diagnosis and treatment.
Findings:
- The exploratory laparotomy confirmed a transomental hernia.
- This rare condition was the cause of the patient's acute intestinal obstruction and peritonitis.
- The diagnosis was established intraoperatively.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare internal hernias in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal conditions.
- Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for managing strangulated internal hernias.
- Understanding the anatomical pathways of internal hernias aids in diagnosis and surgical planning.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia is the abnormal protrusion of the stomach or other abdominal organs through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity.Normally, the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) lies below the diaphragm and is supported by the phrenoesophageal membrane, the diaphragmatic crura, and connective tissues. Weakening of these structures—due to aging, congenital defects like a short esophagus, or increased intra-abdominal pressure from coughing, obesity, pregnancy, or heavy...
01:07Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
01:22Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
01:29Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction
Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...