A combined laparoscopic and open delayed repair of a rare traumatic abdominal wall hernia

Abstract

Introduction: Traumatic abdominal wall hernias (TAWHs) are uncommon and result from a high-energetic blunt trauma to the abdomen. These hernias are not always apparent in initial trauma evaluation. No consensus exists regarding optimal timing and surgical approach. Case Presentation: A 68-year-old Caucasian woman was involved as a passenger in a high-energetic head-on collision motor vehicle accident. In the initial assessment a sternal fracture, four rib fractures, a small pneumothorax, and a medial malleolus fracture were found. A small abdominal wall hernia was missed. Six months later she presents with a painful mass in her left flank. Computed tomography (CT) showed a large hernia containing colon. An elective hybrid repair was done. Laparoscopically, a preperitoneal mesh was placed. Afterward, using open access, the abdominal wall musculature was re-fixated on the iliac crest. Discussion: Emergent surgical management of TAWH is often preferred due to high incidence of associated intra-abdominal lacerations. These settings are not always favorable for mesh placement. Some data suggest a higher recurrence rate for hernias without mesh augmentation and repair within the acute posttraumatic period. Conservative management poses the risk of incarceration and hernia defect enlargement. A delayed repair can be considered if the patient is hemodynamically stable, no associated visceral lacerations are present and the defect is large enough to reduce the risk of incarceration. It has the advantage of mesh placement in healthy tissue. Conclusions: A delayed laparoscopic repair seems a safe and valid option allowing larger mesh placement. Additional fascia closure of muscle fixation can be done granting more reinforcement and smaller incision needs and thus less postoperative pain.