Abstract
Introduction
“Internal hernias are an unusual cause of intestinal obstruction. Pericaecal hernias are an exceptionally rare type of internal hernia.
Laparoscopy for small bowel obstruction was previously considered inappropriate. We present a case of Pericaecal hernia causing small bowel obstruction treated successfully with a laparoscopic approach.”
Case-Report
“64 year old man presented with abdominal pain, vomiting and constipation for 3 days, no previous surgery. Small bowel obstruction confirmed on PFA and CT. He was treated conservatively for 10 days without settling. A an exploratory laparoscopy revealed a Pericaecal hernia. This was reduced with gentle manoeuvre and the peritoneal folds were divided to prevent recurrence. Recovery was uneventful.”
Discussion
“Perioperative diagnosis of internal hernia is extremely difficult. Pericaecal hernia is an uncommon type of internal hernia. CT diagnosis of internal hernia remains difficult. Laparoscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosis and treatment with the advantage of minimal invasiveness. However, the laparoscopic manipulation of distended bowel loops remain controversial because of high risk of perforation, reduced space to work in the peritoneal cavity and requirement of advanced laparoscopic skills. Laparoscopic treatment of Pericaecal hernia was reported about 17 years ago but has since been reported more frequently and in recent years there is a move towards laparoscopic diagnosis and management of Pericaecal hernias.”
Conclusions
“CT diagnosis of internal hernia remains difficult. With the advent of minimal access surgery, diagnostic laparoscopy may be a safe and feasible modality to diagnose and deliver definitive treatment of small bowel obstruction secondary to Pericaecal hernia.”
CT diagnosis of small bowel obstruction caused by internal hernia from persistent attachment of a Meckel’s diverticulum to the umbilicus by the obliterated omphalomesenteric duct
