Internal hernia following laparoscopic colorectal surgery: single center experience

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Internal hernias are infrequent but severe complications following laparoscopic colorectal surgery.
• These hernias are associated with a significant mortality rate, reaching up to 20%.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the clinical experience with internal herniation after laparoscopic colorectal procedures.
• To analyze the perioperative course and outcomes of patients who developed internal hernias.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patient charts from 1,093 laparoscopic colorectal procedures performed between 2009 and 2015.
• Analysis of 6 identified cases of internal herniation, including their perioperative course and outcomes.

Main Results:

• All 6 patients had prior colorectal cancer surgery.
• Two patients presented with ischemia requiring laparotomy; one died post-operatively.
• Diagnostic methods included laparotomy, endoscopy, and screening colonoscopy.

Conclusions:

• Internal herniation post-laparoscopic colorectal surgery carries a high mortality risk.
• Further research into risk factors is crucial for identifying patients who may benefit from mesenteric defect closure.