Lessons learnt in the management of paraduodenal hernias: a case series.

Abstract

Paraduodenal hernias (PDH) are rare congenital internal hernias with non- specific symptoms. Left-sided paraduodenal hernia is three times more common than right-sided paraduodenal hernia with similar clinical presentation but different embryological origins. We report a series of eight cases of paraduodenal hernia who presented with varied clinical presentation ranging from vague abdominal pain to complete intestinal obstruction. Six cases had left-sided paraduodenal hernia, while two cases had right-sided paraduodenal hernia. Seven cases based on their presentation underwent surgery either electively or on emergent basis. Three cases underwent laparoscopic repair. One case had a recurrence and was re-operated four months later. There was no mortality among any of the cases. A pre-operative diagnosis of paraduodenal hernia is essential. Laparoscopic surgery is safe in select cases and is found to be beneficial.