Incarcerated umbilical hernia associated with gastric pneumatosis

Abstract

Gastric pneumatosis is a well-recognized clinical entity that is described in the literature as either a subtype of pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis or gastric emphysema. Gastric pneumatosis may be due to a variety of causes, which are classically categorized as infectious or noninfectious in nature. We report a case of gastric pneumatosis and pneumoperitoneum associated with a bowel obstruction secondary to an incarcerated umbilical hernia. Literature about gastric pneumatosis was reviewed and the different classifications and etiologies briefly described. Knowledge of the different types and natural history of gastric pneumatosis can be helpful when deciding on surgical versus nonoperative management of patients with this condition. The following core competencies are addressed in this article: Medical knowledge and patient care. Republished with permission from: El Chaar M, Stawicki SP, Jenoff J, Estrada FP. Incarcerated umbilical hernia associated with gastric pneumatosis: A case report OPUS 12 Scientist. 2007;1(1):9-10.