Incarcerated Epiploic Appendix in a Spigelian Hernia Treated by Robotic-Assisted Surgery

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Innovation
• Abdominal Wall Surgery

Background:

• Spigelian hernias are uncommon abdominal wall defects.
• Epiploic appendagitis, while common, can present atypically.
• Incarceration of epiploic appendix within a Spigelian hernia is a rare occurrence.

Observation:

• A 52-year-old male presented with nausea and worsening left lower quadrant pain.
• Physical examination revealed an irreducible left lower quadrant mass.
• Computed tomography confirmed epiploic appendagitis within a left Spigelian hernia.

Findings:

• The patient underwent a successful robotic transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair.
• The surgical procedure was performed with no intraoperative complications.
• The patient was discharged on the same day of the surgery.

Implications:

• Robotic-assisted surgery provides a safe and effective minimally invasive option for complex hernia repairs.
• This approach may lead to reduced recovery times and improved patient outcomes.
• Highlights the importance of considering rare presentations of common conditions in diagnosis and treatment planning.