Incarcerated transmesosigmoid hernia presenting in a 60-year-old man: a case report

• Main Authors: Collins Danielle, Kavanagh Dara, Myers Eddie, Richards Steve, McDermott Enda
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: BMC 2008-05-01
• Series: Journal of Medical Case Reports
• Online Access: http://www.jmedicalcasereports.com/content/2/1/161

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Introduction</p> <p>Internal hernias are a rare cause of small bowel obstruction and are estimated to account for 1% to 5% of cases. Herniation through a defect in the sigmoid mesocolon constitutes 6% of all internal hernias.</p> <p>Case presentation</p> <p>In this case report we describe a rare case of a fit and healthy 60-year-old man, with no previous history of abdominal surgery, who presented with signs and symptoms of small bowel obstruction as a result of an incarcerated transmesosigmoid hernia. The hernia was reduced and the incarcerated loop of small bowel was found to be viable. The patient made a good recovery and was discharged home on the fourth post-operative day.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>Internal hernias can cause considerable morbidity and mortality, so prompt diagnosis is paramount. Transmesosigmoid hernias are most common in the paediatric population; however, our patient was 60 years old. This report highlights the importance of considering an internal hernia as a cause of small bowel obstruction in individuals of all age groups and especially in those without a previous history of abdominal surgery.</p>