Spigelian hernia – 2 case reports

Abstract

Background: Spigelian hernia (SH) is a rare ventral hernia which is found in the region of Spigelian fascia. Incidence is low, so it is often overlooked and defined as »normal« ventral hernia. Incarceration is found in more that one third of all cases. This indicates the importance of clinical examination and confirmation which is followed by early operation. Patients and methods: We present two case reports. The first patient was a 69-years old male with palpable SH that was confirmed during surgery. The second patient, 41-years old male, was admitted to hospital and urgently operated because of acute abdomen. Operation revealed incarceration of small bowell in SH. Hernia was clinically not evident prior to surgery. Conclusions: Surgeon should be familiar with the anatomy of SH. Due to high incidence of incarceration SH should be diagnosed and treated without delay.