Inguinal hernia containing a kidney with a duplicated system: an exceptionally rare case

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Surgical Case Reports
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Inguinal hernias are common surgical conditions.
• Unusual hernia contents are occasionally reported.
• This case presents an exceptionally rare finding.

Observation:

• A 62-year-old male presented with a large left inguinal hernia extending into the scrotum.
• CT imaging revealed a duplicated left kidney within the hernia sac.
• Associated findings included a left hydrocele and incidental kidney stones.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention included left nephropexy, left orchiectomy, and incarcerated inguinal hernia repair.
• A preperitoneal (retroperitoneal) approach with mesh placement was utilized.
• The patient experienced an uneventful recovery and was discharged on post-operative day 5.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of rare inguinal hernia contents.
• It highlights the importance of advanced imaging in diagnosing complex hernias.
• The successful surgical management provides a reference for similar rare presentations.