OPERATING ON A GIANT (BELOW KNEE) INGUINO-SCROTAL HERNIA AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR REPAIR

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aim To increase knowledge and understanding about giant inguino-scrotal hernias and share our experience with the European Hernia Society. Method A 52-year-old gentleman presented with a symptomatic giant inguino-scrotal hernia which reached the ankle level, with a buried penis. A CT scan showed the sac to contain the right hemicolon, omentum, multiple loops of small bowel, sigmoid colon and the right ureter. The patient was taken through a complex hernia multidisciplinary team (MDT) meeting. A period of prehabiliation was undertaken to optimise the patient for operation. The scrotal skin was cared for to eradicate pressure areas and fungal infection. Pre-operative botox was used for restoration of abdominal domain. Results A successful operation was carried out by two experienced hernia surgeons. The surgical approach was inguino-scrotal, with dissection of sac contents and a midline laparotomy to aid reduction of contents with restoration of anatomy into the peritoneal cavity. The large defect was repaired with biological mesh. The patient recovered well post-operatively and was discharged on day 13. The patient continues to do well 20 months post-operatively without recurrence. Conclusion In order to carry out this operation we recommended a multidisciplinary approach with careful and meticulous work up. Discussion in an MDT environment should be standard where all approaches can be considered e.g. pre-operative botox. The operation should be carried out by an experienced hernia surgeon and another consultant.