Radiation-free elective management of traumatic abdominal wall hernia in a pediatric patient: a case report
Karen E G Olesen1, Tuba Ashraf2, Line Kannegaard Johannsen3
1Department of Anesthesiology, Holbaek Sygehus, Smedelundsgade 60, Holbaek 4300, Denmark.
Insights
Pediatric traumatic abdominal wall hernias (TAWHs) are rare. This case report details a child with TAWH after a fall, managed non-operatively initially, with successful surgical repair later.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Pediatric traumatic abdominal wall hernias (TAWHs) are uncommon injuries.
- TAWHs can range from simple hernias to complex injuries with intra-abdominal damage.
- Limited case reports complicate management and outcome prediction.
Abstract:
Pediatric traumatic abdominal wall hernias (TAWHs) are rare injuries that result from both low- and high-energy trauma. TAWHs have a wide presentation, ranging from isolated hernias to cases involving severe associated intraabdominal injury. With a limited number of case reports, correct management and prediction of outcome are difficult. This case report describes a 5-year-and-9-month-old girl who developed a TAWH following a 2-m fall onto a stick. Computed tomography of the abdomen was avoided due to the low-energy mechanism, absence of pain, and lack of physical findings beyond a minor abrasion. Serial sonographic evaluation confirmed bowel herniation without evidence of associated intraabdominal injury. After an observational period of 24 hours without complications, the patient was discharged. Ten days later, an uncomplicated elective open herniotomy was performed. Two-month follow-up revealed no additional contacts to the hospital.
