Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026

10:52
Laparoscopic Repair of Para-Esophageal Hernia Using Absorbable Biosynthetic Mesh
Published on: September 11, 2021
4.9K
Congenital internal hernia presented with life threatening extensive small bowel strangulation
Narae Lee1, Su-Gon Kim, Yeoun Joo Lee
1Department of Pediatrics, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea.
Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
|November 14, 2013
Summary
Internal hernia (IH) is a rare cause of bowel obstruction. Early computed tomography (CT) scans are crucial for diagnosing IH and preventing life-threatening shock, enabling prompt surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Abdominal Surgery
- Pediatric Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Internal hernia (IH) is a rare condition involving organ protrusion into abdominal fossae, often presenting with vague or acute symptoms.
- Preoperative diagnosis of IH is challenging with conventional imaging, necessitating advanced techniques for accurate identification.
Observation:
- A 6-year-old boy presented with life-threatening shock due to a congenital internal hernia.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed significant ascites and strangulated bowel with poor enhancement.
Findings:
- The patient required immediate surgical exploration and resection of over two meters of strangulated small bowel.
- CT scan demonstrated high accuracy in identifying the internal hernia and associated complications.
Implications:
- Early utilization of CT scans can significantly reduce diagnostic delays for internal hernias.
- Prompt surgical intervention is critical for managing internal hernias to prevent severe morbidity and mortality.
Related Concept Videos
Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction
87
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,...
87
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
76
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...
76
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
926
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:
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
926
Appendicitis
33
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...
33
Hiatal Hernia
144
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...
144
Diverticular Disease of the Colon
49
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...
49

