Congenital Internal Hernia: Rare Cause of Acute Abdominal Pain

Acute abdominal pain is a common presenting symptom that possesses a wide differential. Congenital internal hernias are a rare condition that often presents with abdominal pain and can lead to obstruction. Early diagnosis is often difficult and therefore can present acutely and in an emergent setting. Prompt recognition of symptoms and evaluation are important to prevent poor prognosis. We are presenting a case of a congenital internal hernia in a patient presenting with nonspecific symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and subsequent surgical intervention allowed for appropriate management and resolution of symptoms.

Laparoscopic reduction and repair of a left paraduodenal hernia

Left paraduodenal hernias are the most common type of congenital internal hernia, but they are difficult to diagnose without appropriate imaging. A 79-year-old man with a history of recurrent abdominal pain had another similar episode of abdominal pain, which prompted him to seek evaluation. The pain resolved spontaneously on arrival to the hospital. Enhanced CT scan showed the characteristic findings of a left paraduodenal hernia and laparoscopic repair was undertaken. The small intestine was reduced successfully, and the hernia orifice was approximated with a continuous closure. He was discharged uneventfully 4 days after admission. The characteristic clinical and imaging findings of paraduodenal hernias are reviewed. Laparoscopic repair is reasonable in patients who have a paraduodenal hernia without intestinal ischemia.

Timing of Abdominal CT Evaluation Impacts the Diagnosis of Paraduodenal Hernia

Internal hernias are the causes of 0.5 to 5.8 per cent of all cases of small bowel obstruction. Left paraduodenal hernia (PDH) is the most common congenital internal hernia encountered in adults. The symptoms and physical findings associated with PDH are vague and nonspecific before the onset of complicated intestinal obstruction. Diagnoses are most commonly established by CT. This case presentation and review is intended to promote clinicians’ awareness of this unusual but potentially highly morbid condition, discuss CT findings associated with PDH, and illustrate the importance of timing in the acquisition of diagnostic abdominal CT scans.