Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 8, 2026

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
05:07

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia

Published on: July 21, 2023

Mesenteric appendicitis strangulating small bowel: an exceptional internal herniation

Y Narjis1, K Rabbani, H Jalal

  • 1Department of General Surgery, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco. y.narjis@yahoo.fr

Hernia : the Journal of Hernias and Abdominal Wall Surgery
|September 23, 2010
PubMed

Insights

A rare internal abdominal hernia caused by intra-mesenteric appendicitis led to small bowel strangulation in a young man. Surgical exploration revealed the hernia, leading to successful appendicectomy and adhesiolysis for full recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Abdominal Surgery
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Internal hernias, though rare, are a significant cause of intestinal obstruction.
  • Transomental hernias are exceptionally uncommon types of internal abdominal hernias.

Observation:

  • A young male presented with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, indicative of intestinal obstruction.
  • Abdominal X-rays revealed dilated small bowel loops with air-fluid levels.
  • Ultrasound suggested appendicitis, but the internal hernia was only diagnosed during surgery.

Findings:

  • The case involved a rare transomental internal hernia.
  • The small bowel was found to be strangulated by an intra-mesenteric appendicitis.
  • Surgical intervention included appendicectomy and adhesiolysis.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering rare causes of intestinal obstruction.
  • Intra-mesenteric appendicitis can present as a cause of internal hernia and strangulation.
  • Prompt surgical diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes in such rare cases.

More Related Videos

Targeting the Rat's Small Bowel: Long-Term Infusion into the Superior Mesenteric Artery07:12

Targeting the Rat's Small Bowel: Long-Term Infusion into the Superior Mesenteric Artery

Published on: April 8, 2021

Related Concept Videos

Appendicitis01:19

Appendicitis

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...
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction01:29

Intestinal 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,...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal 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...
Diverticular Disease of the Colon01:27

Diverticular Disease of the Colon

Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD: