Traumatic spigelian hernia: a rare clinical scenario

Area of Science:

• Abdominal surgery
• Trauma surgery
• Gastrointestinal surgery

Background:

• Traumatic Spigelian hernia is a rare clinical entity.
• It presents with variable clinical signs and symptoms.
• A high index of suspicion is necessary for prompt diagnosis and management.

Observation:

• This report details a case of traumatic Spigelian hernia following blunt trauma to the right lower abdomen.
• The herniated bowel loop was found to be gangrenous and perforated.
• Fecal matter had spilled into the adjoining parietal layer.

Findings:

• The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy.
• Resection of the gangrenous bowel loop and ileostomy were performed.
• The patient's post-operative course was uneventful.

Implications:

• Delayed diagnosis of traumatic Spigelian hernia can lead to severe morbidity, including bowel incarceration or strangulation.
• This case highlights the importance of considering traumatic Spigelian hernia in patients with blunt abdominal trauma.
• Surgical intervention, including bowel resection and ileostomy, may be necessary for management.