Lateral ventral (spigelian) hernias in infants and children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Abdominal Wall Anatomy

Background:

• Spigelian hernias are uncommon ventral hernias occurring lateral to the rectus abdominis muscles.
• These hernias are located within the spigelian fascia, typically below the umbilicus.

Observation:

• This report details three cases of spigelian hernias in infants and children.
• Diagnosis relies on identifying an unusual anterior abdominal wall mass and palpating the hernia defect rim after mass reduction.

Findings:

• Spigelian hernias can be easily misdiagnosed in pediatric patients if not specifically considered.
• Palpating the hernia defect's edge during straining, before anesthesia, is crucial for diagnosis.

Implications:

• Increased awareness of childhood spigelian hernias is necessary for accurate and timely diagnosis.
• Pre-anesthesia examination is vital for defining the hernia defect and preventing diagnostic errors.