The Original Rutherford Morison Incision: A Case Report

In recent years, the Rutherford Morison incision has become synonymous with renal transplant surgery. However, this incision was originally intended for access to the sigmoid colon and pelvis, particularly in the case of a midline previously scarred from operation. We present a case of a middle-aged female with a caecal tumour, requiring resection. Upon examination, this patient was found to have large concomitant diastasis of the recti. A right-sided Rutherford Morison incision was utilized in performing a right hemicolectomy. Although the advantages of a minimally invasive approach to colonic resections are well described, laparoscopy was not utilized in the case discussed. Due to the wide area of anterior abdominal wall laxity, herniation is likely to develop at both port placement and specimen delivery sites. A similar outcome would result from a midline incision. However, a paramedian is an acceptable alternative to a Rutherford Morison incision in a case like this, as it is known to have very low rates of post-operative incisional herniation. While in modern times, its use may have become repurposed, the Rutherford Morison incision is one which should be remembered and used in the surgeons' armamentarium to improve clinical outcomes when necessary.