Laparoscopic repair for internal hernia associated with colostomy: a case report

A 63-year-old woman was admitted with abdominal pain two months after laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer. Computed tomography revealed dilated small intestine had passed through a defect between the lifted sigmoid colon and abdominal wall. She was diagnosed with small bowel obstruction without strangulation due to internal hernia and managed nonoperatively based on her wish. Recurrence of intestinal obstruction occurred for which curative surgery was performed laparoscopically. The herniated intestine was restored to the normal position, and the hernia orifice was closed using barbed suture, on laparoscopic management. Internal hernia is a rare complication after colostomy that requires surgical management. Although laparoscopic approach on re-operation is difficult, laparoscopic surgery may be suitable for patients with IHAC in terms of required less use of adhesiolysis.