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Published on: September 11, 2021
A transmesenteric congenital internal hernia presenting in an adult
Hellen McK Edwards1, Haytham Al-Tayar2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Herlev Hospital, Herlev, Denmark hellenedwards@yahoo.com.
Insights
Congenital internal hernias (CIAHs) are a rare cause of small bowel obstruction. This case highlights a transmesenteric CIAH successfully repaired via laparotomy, with the patient recovering quickly.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Congenital internal hernias (CIAHs) represent a rare etiology of small bowel obstruction in adult populations.
- Diagnosis can be challenging, often requiring advanced imaging and surgical exploration.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old male presented with symptoms suggestive of intestinal obstruction.
- Clinical examination and computed tomography (CT) scan indicated obstruction, but the specific cause remained unclear.
Findings:
- Emergency laparotomy revealed a transmesenteric congenital internal hernia.
- Approximately 1 meter of small bowel had herniated through a 2 cm mesenteric defect near the transverse colon.
- The mesenteric defect was successfully repaired using interrupted sutures.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering CIAH in the differential diagnosis of adult small bowel obstruction.
- Prompt surgical intervention and repair of mesenteric defects are crucial for favorable patient outcomes.
- Accurate preoperative diagnosis via CT imaging can aid in surgical planning for these rare hernias.
Abstract:
Congenital internal hernias (CIAHs) are a rare cause of small bowel obstruction in adults. We present a case of transmesenteric CIAH in a 32-year-old male. The clinical examination and computed tomography scan were interpreted as intestinal obstruction, and only an emergency laparotomy revealed that 1 m of small bowel herniated through a 2 cm defect in the mesentery of the transverse colon. Repair of the defect was performed using interrupted suturing, and the patient was discharged after 4 days without sequelae.
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