Perineal hernia repair following tailgut cyst excision: A case report and literature review of optimal management strategies

Abstract

Perineal hernias, categorised as primary or secondary, pose a clinical challenge necessitating surgical intervention. Herein we present the surgical management of a postoperative perineal hernia of the retrorectal space. A 42-year-old female patient presented to the clinic with symptoms such as perineal discomfort, bulging, and constipation after previous surgical tailgut cyst excision. Diagnosis involved MRI, confirming rectal herniation into the retrorectal space. The surgical approach featured a perineal intervention using a unilateral inferior gluteal flap to reinforce the posterior rectal space, avoiding mesh complications. The patient experienced a successful recovery, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions based on symptoms and complications. Secondary perineal hernias, often postoperative, present diverse challenges influenced by multiple factors such as pelvic surgeries. Surgical repair options include perineal and abdominal approaches, mesh usage, and flap methods, each with variable outcomes. This case study contributes to the evolving understanding of perineal hernias, emphasising the need for multidisciplinary approaches and ongoing research to enhance management strategies in this complex clinical scenario.