Unveiling the Foramen of Winslow: A Case Report of Internal Hernia and Its Surgical Implications

A foramen of Winslow hernia is a rare variant of an internal hernia. It is a difficult condition to diagnose with a non-specific history and examination and requires the consideration of both clinical and radiologic features. In this study, we report the case of a 67-year-old Vietnamese woman who presented with abdominal pain and vomiting; a computed tomography (CT) scan depicted small bowel obstruction (SBO) with a transition point within the foramen of Winslow. The patient was taken for an emergent laparoscopic reduction of a hernia, without requiring bowel resection or conversion to open surgery. She recovered well post-operatively with the gradual introduction of diet and the cessation of nasogastric tube (NGT) decompression. In keeping with the existing literature on this rare condition, we conclude that early diagnosis and prompt surgical intervention are necessary to limit morbidity and that further research is required regarding techniques to prevent recurrence.