Lateral Abdominal Wall Muscles Research Articles

Descriptive Anatomy of the Porcine Ventral Abdominal Wall as a Basis for Training Ventral Hernia Repair Techniques.

Background: In recent times there has been a surge in innovative techniques concerning complex abdominal wall surgery. The availability of simulation models for comprehensive training and skill set development remains limited. Methods: Cadaveric dissections of the porcine abdominal wall were conducted to assess the suitability of anesthetized porcine models for training in both minimally invasive and open surgical procedures. Results: The panniculus carnosus, a typical muscular layer in mammals, is the outermost layer covering the anterolateral abdominal wall. Beneath it, there are four main pairs of abdominal wall muscles, mirroring the human anatomy. The rectus abdominis muscle runs straight along the linea alba and is surrounded by the rectus sheath, which is formed by the fusion of the lateral abdominal wall muscles and differs along the different regions of abdominal wall. The orientation of the muscle fibers in the lateral abdominal wall muscles, i.e., musculus obliquus externus, internus and transversus, is comparable to human anatomy. Although the transition lines between their muscular and aponeurotic part differ to some extent. Relevant for the adoption of surgical techniques, the transversus abdominis muscle is well-developed and resembles a bell curve shape as it transitions from its muscular to aponeurotic part. Conclusion: Despite minor differences in abdominal wall anatomy between pigs and humans, the porcine model provides a high level of fidelity in terms of both anatomical features and the development of skill sets relevant to hernia surgery.

Abdominal Wall Tension and Early Outcomes after Posterior Component Separation with Transversus Abdominis Release: Does a "Tension-Free" Closure Really Matter?

Ventral hernias result in fibrosis of the lateral abdominal wall muscles, increasing tension on fascial closure. Little is known about the effect of abdominal wall tension on outcomes after abdominal wall reconstruction. We aimed to identify an association between abdominal wall tension and early postoperative outcomes in patients who underwent posterior component separation (PCS) with transversus abdominis release (TAR). Using a proprietary, sterilizable tensiometer, the tension needed to bring the anterior fascial elements to the midline of the abdominal wall during PCS with TAR was recorded. Tensiometer measurements, in pounds (lb), were calibrated by accounting for the acceleration of Earth's gravity. Baseline fascial tension, change in fascial tension, and fascial tension at closure were evaluated with respect to 30-day outcomes, including wound morbidity, hospital readmission, reoperation, ileus, bleeding, and pulmonary complications. A total of 100 patients underwent bilateral abdominal wall tensiometry, for a total of 200 measurements (left and right side for each patient). Mean baseline anterior fascial tension was 6.78 lb (SD 4.55) on each side. At abdominal closure, the mean anterior fascial tension was 3.12 (SD 3.21) lb on each side. Baseline fascial tension and fascial tension after PCS with TAR at abdominal closure were not associated with surgical site infection, surgical site occurrence, readmission, ileus, and bleeding requiring transfusion. The event rates for all other complications were too infrequent for statistical analysis. Baseline and residual fascial tension of the anterior abdominal wall do not correlate with early postoperative morbidity in patients undergoing PCS with TAR. Further work is needed to determine if abdominal wall tension in this context is associated with long-term outcomes, such as hernia recurrence.

An Unusual Case: Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Lateral Abdominal Wall Muscles

An Unusual Case: Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Lateral Abdominal Wall Muscles

913 Role of Botulinum Toxin in the Medical Management of Respiratory Distress Secondary to Suspected Intraabdominal Hypertension After Abdominal Wall Reconstruction

Abstract Introduction Botulinum toxin (BTX) is a neurotoxin which causes functional denervation of muscles. Botulinum toxin type A (BTX) has been approved for a wide range of clinical applications. In addition, off-label preoperative injection of BTX is increasingly used for chemical component relaxation of the lateral abdominal wall muscles prior to abdominal wall reconstruction. Rationale Postoperative intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) with consequent organ dysfunction can be a potential complication after abdominal wall reconstruction. The IAH and ACS clinical practice guidelines suggest improving abdominal wall compliance in their medical management algorithm including neuromuscular blockade. Method Following an open retrorectus mesh repair with left component separation via transversus abdominis release of a midline incisional hernia, we report a case of postoperative respiratory distress and acute kidney injury suspected secondary to increasing intraabdominal hypertension due to ileus unresponsive to standard conservative measures including nasogastric tube insertion, use of prokinetic agents and judicious fluid management. We performed Botox A injection under ultrasound guidance to the lateral abdominal wall musculature. This resulted in improved abdominal wall compliance, consequent resolution of respiratory symptoms and reversal of acute renal injury with eventual resolution of ileus and a good post operative outcome. There was an increase in length of stay by 2 days compared to our average. The patient remains well at 3 months post operatively. Conclusions Botulinum Toxin A injection can be considered as adjunct in the medical management of IAH and ACS if it has not been used in the pre-operative setting.

Volumetry after botulinum toxin A: the impact on abdominal wall compliance and endotracheal pressure.

Botulinum toxin type A (BTA) is an adjuvant tool used in the preoperative optimization of complex hernias before abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). This study aims to investigate changes in the abdominal cavity and hernia sac dimensions after BTA application. A prospective study with 27 patients with a hernia defect of ≥ 10cm and loss of domain (LOD) ≥ 20% underwent AWR. Computed tomography (CT) measurements and volumetry before and after the application of BTA were performed. Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. Imaging post-BTA revealed hernia width reduction of 1.9cm (p = 0.002), lateral abdominal wall muscle elongation of 3.1cm (p < 0.001), hernia volume reduction (HV) from 2.9 ± 0.9L to 2.4 ± 0.8L (p < 0.001), increase in abdominal cavity volume (ACV) from 9.7 ± 2.5L to 10.3L ± 2.4L (p = 0.003), and a reduction in the HV/ACV ratio from 30.2 ± 5% to 23.4 ± 6% (p < 0.001). Fascial closure was achieved in 92.6% of cases and component separation was required in 78%. The average variation in pulmonary plateau pressure was 3.53 cmH2O, and there were no postoperative respiratory failure recorded. At the 90-day follow-up, the wound morbidity rate was 25%, unplanned readmissions were 11%, and hernia recurrence 7.4%. BTA produces measurable volumetric changes in abdominal wall and appears to facilitate fascial closure. Further studies are required to determine the role of BTA in the surgical armamentarium for complex hernia repair.

Comparison of Two Versus Three Bilateral Botulinum Toxin Injections Prior to Abdominal Wall Reconstruction.

Background: Intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin A (BTA) induces a temporary muscle paralysis. In patients with a ventral hernia, preoperative injection of BTA in the muscles of the lateral abdominal wall (LAW) leads to thinning and lengthening of these muscles, making fascial closure more likely. In many hernia centres, treatment with BTA prior to abdominal wall reconstruction has therefore become standard care. However, evidence on the optimal BTA strategy is lacking. Methods: In this single-centre retrospective study, we analysed a consecutive cohort of ventral hernia patients that underwent bilateral BTA injections prior to abdominal wall reconstruction with available CT before and after BTA. We only included patients that were treated with exactly 600 units of Dysport®, diluted into 120mL of saline, via either two- or three injections on each side into all three LAW muscle layers. The primary outcome was the change in LAW muscle length and thickness, comparing CT measures from before BTA and 4-6weeks after the injections. Results: We analysed 67 patients; 30 had received two injections bilaterally and 37 had received three injections bilaterally. Baseline data showed no significant differences in LAW muscle thickness or length between groups. In both groups, the median LAW muscle thickness decreased with 0.5cm (p < 0.001). The LAW muscle length increased with 0.9cm (p = 0.001) and 1.2cm (p < 0.001) in the two- and three bilateral injection group, respectively. The BTA-induced changes in LAW thickness and length were not significantly different between both groups (p = 0.809 and p = 0.654, respectively). Discussion: When using the exact same dosage and distribution volume of BTA in patients with a complex abdominal wall defect, two injections bilaterally in the lateral abdominal wall muscles are as effective as three injections bilaterally.

P-038 BOTULINUM TOXIN IN THE TREATMENT OF COMPLEX ABDOMINAL HERNIAS: A REVIEW OF CLINICAL OUTCOMES

Abstract Aim Adjuvant use of botulinum toxin (BTX), which causes temporary paralysis of the lateral abdominal wall muscles, may have a roll in achieving a functional abdominal wall reconstruction when treating complex hernias, without the need of component separation techniques (CST). Methods Retrospective analysis of all patients with complex hernia between April 2021 and October 2022 in which BTX was used. Patients that would have to go through CST regardless and patients with other adjuvant treatments were excluded. Results 22 patients had BTX, with a total of 13 patients included in this study. The median age was 64 and BMI 30,7kg/m2. The average CT imaging measurement of the transverse defect was 13,7cm. The median of Cedar's calculation was 27%. 7 patients (54%) only needed a Rives Stoppa Wantz (RSW) for midline closure, but 6 patients still needed a CST. The median time of the surgery for the RSW was 233 min and for the CST 330 min. Of the patients submitted to RSW, 1 complicated with a deep incisional infection and 2 CST patients had surgical complications. No recurrences in the RSW group and one hernia persistence after a major complication on the CST group. Conclusion The BTX can have an important role as an adjuvant in the treatment of large incisional hernias and in some patients may allow its repair with a less invasive surgical technique, with less operative time and less complications. More studies are needed in this area.

V-020 Botulinum Toxin: not just aesthetics anymore

Abstract Introduction Surgical repair of recurrent abdominal incisional hernia can be challenging. The aim should be a tension-free, mesh reinforced midline fascial closure. Different methods have been described to achieve this primary fascial closure. Botulinum toxin (BT) is a neurotoxin that when injected into muscle tissue, causes a temporary flaccid muscle paralysis. This effect can be applied to the lateral abdominal wall muscles, thereby facilitating midline rectus muscles re-approximation and defect closure. Clinical Case We present a case of a 58 year old female, with a history of right hemicolectomy and ileostomy, that underwent subsequent stoma closure one year after. She presented with a 12 cm defect width incisional hernia and right rectus muscle atrophy. We demonstrate the preoperative injection of BT using the Zielinski technique in a consultation room with no need for patient monitoring or anesthesia. Four weeks later, the patient underwent open repair with bilateral transversus abdominis release and retromuscular mesh reinforcement. The defect was closed without tension and the postoperative period was uneventful. Patient was discharged on postoperative day 4. Conclusion Preoperative BT injection as a selective muscle chemical component paralysis is a safe, easy to perform and effective technique that aims to counteract the chronic muscle retraction observed in large ventral hernias. BT in combination with advanced ventral hernia repair techniques, may help provide the crucial extra tissue mobility required to achieve primary closure, with the added advantage of less postoperative pain, thereby contributing to early patient discharge.

A midline retroperitoneal approach for complex abdominal aortic repair: Case description and operative technique.

In the current endovascular era, open repair of complex aortic aneurysms is becoming a rare, but indispensable, part of vascular surgeons' skill set in specific scenarios. For young, low-risk patients and patients with connective tissue disorders, early target vessel bifurcation, a horseshoe kidney, or pedunculated intraluminal aortic thrombus, fenestrated-branched stent graft technology will not be applicable without significant risks. Thus, an open surgical approach has been recommended for these patients. Most vascular surgeons will be familiar with a transperitoneal approach or a retroperitoneal approach with a lateral incision. For patients with a horseshoe kidney, an inflammatory aneurysm, or a history of multiple intraperitoneal procedures, a retroperitoneal approach should be preferred. In the present report, we have described in detail the optimization of a retroperitoneal approach through a midline incision that provides excellent exposure to the paravisceral aorta, improves exposure to the right renal artery and right iliac artery bifurcation (which is limited using the left flank retroperitoneal approach), and avoids division of the lateral abdominal wall muscles, which has often been associated with iatrogenic muscle denervation and postoperative bulging for four patients who had required complex aortic reconstruction.

Morphological alterations of the abdominal wall after open incisional hernia repair with endoscopic anterior and open posterior component separation.

Effects of component separation (CS) on abdominal wall morphology have only been investigated in smaller case series or cadavers. This study aimed to compare abdominal wall alterations following endoscopic anterior CS (EACS) or open transverse abdominis release (TAR). Computed tomography scans were evaluated in patients who had undergone open incisional hernia repair with EACS or TAR. Abdominal wall circumference, lateral abdominal wall muscle thickness, and displacement were compared with (1) preoperative images after bilateral CS and (2) the undivided side postoperatively after unilateral CS. In total, 105 patients were included. Fifty-five (52%) and 15 (14%) underwent bilateral and unilateral EACS, respectively. Five (5%) and 14 (13%) underwent bilateral and unilateral TAR, respectively. Sixteen (15%) underwent unilateral EACS and contralateral TAR. The external oblique and transverse abdominis muscles were significantly laterally displaced with a mean of 2.74cm (95% CI 2.29-3.19cm, P < 0.001) and 0.82cm (0.07-1.57cm, P = 0.032) after EACS and TAR, respectively. The combined thickness of the lateral muscles was significantly decreased after EACS (mean decrease 10.5% (5.8-15.6%, P < 0.001)) and insignificantly decreased after TAR (mean decrease 2.6% (-4.8 to 9.5%, P = 0.50)). The abdominal wall circumference was unchanged after bilateral (mean reduction 0.90cm (-0.77 to 2.58cm), P = 0.29) and unilateral CS (mean increase 0.03cm (-1.01 to 1.08cm), P = 0.95). Postoperative changes in the lateral abdominal wall musculature were different following EACS and open TAR. Either technique seems not to compromise the overall integrity of the lateral abdominal wall.

P-077 SURGICAL TREATMENT OF LARGE INCISIONAL HERNIA WITH BOTULINUM TOXIN A INJECTION: STUDY PROTOCOL FOR A DOUBLE-BLIND RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract Aim The best strategy for W3 incisional hernia (IH) repair is not known to date and is associated with high risks of recurrence and morbidity. We aim to demonstrate that preoperative Botulinum Toxin A (BTA) injection in the lateral abdominal wall muscles reduces the rate of postoperative morbimortality after large IH (EHS W3) repair with mesh, compared with placebo injection. Material &amp; Methods This study will be a prospective, national multi-center, double-blinded, randomized (1:1) superiority phase III trial with two parallel arms: BTA versus placebo injection. Participants will be selected based on an abdomino-pelvic CT-scan without contrast injection performed in the 6 months preceding the patient's surgery. Main inclusion criteria will comprise midline anterior primary or recurrent IH (subxiphoidal to suprapubic), of width ≥ 10 cm, without loss of domain. Patients included will be randomized (1: 1 ratio), by using a computer-generated randomization scheme, and randomization will by stratified on the center and width of the IH (10–15 cm and &amp;gt; 15 cm). Participants will be randomized on the day of the injection, at least 4 weeks before the surgery. Results The primary endpoint will be the occurrence of Clavien-Dindo classification grade II or higher post-operative complication during the 90-day postoperative period. Secondary endpoints will include the rates of primary fascial closure, occurrence of component separation techniques, radiological response to injections, consumption of analgesics and pain, and occurrence of clinical and radiological recurrences. Conclusions Protocol version 2.0 is currently being assessed for funding by the French Ministry of Health.

P-131 SHORT TERM RESULTS OF PREOPERATIVE TOXIN BOTULINUM A IN PREPARATION FOR ABDOMINAL WALL RECONSTRUCTION

Abstract Aim to report short term outcomes of preoperative toxin botulinum A (TBA) in preparation for abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR). Material and Methods Patient with a hernia width&amp;gt;10cm and/or loss of domain who underwent elective AWR from April 2021 through March 2022 were included. All patients received ultrasound-guided administration of 300 units of TBA prior the surgery. Outcomes of interest included: changes in hernia dimensions and CT-Scan volumetric measurements after treatment, rates of complete fascial closure, postoperative intraabdominal hypertension, unplanned readmission and hernia recurrence. Results Fifteen patients were included (53% males; mean age 61years, mean body mass index 28.9kg/m2). Median hernia width decreased by 2cm (before 15cm [IQR 14–18.5], after 13cm [IQR 10.3–15]; p=0.002) and median abdominal cavity volume increased by 1.4L (before 4.8L [IQR 3.8–11.1], after 6.2L [4.2–9.2]; p=0.594). Thickness of lateral abdominal wall muscles decreased (before 2cm [IQR 1.6–3], after 1.1cm [IQR 1–1.3]; p=0.008 and the Tanaka Index decreased (12% [IQR 3.6–24.2] and 5% [IQR 1.4–16.8]; p=0.066) Complete fascial closure was achieved in 13cases(87%). Three patients did not require component separation. Mean endotracheal pressure was 19mmHg. There were no intraabdominal hypertension. At a median 9months follow-up [range 6.2–11.5] wound morbidity rate was 20%(N=3), N=1 recurrence, N=1 unplanned readmission. Conclusions TBA promotes changes to the lateral abdominal wall with decrease on defect width and thickness of lateral muscles and increase in cavity volume and Tanaka index. Randomized clinical trials are needed to determine the clinical implication of preoperative TBA in preparation for AWR.

OC-072 SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS OF PREOPERATIVE ADMINISTRATION OF BOTULINUM TOXIN AS ADJUNCT TO VENTRAL HERNIA REPAIRS

Abstract Aim Preoperative application of botulinum toxin (BTX), with or without preoperative progressive pneumoperitoneum (PPP), is an adjunct to complex ventral hernia repairs, causing flaccid paralysis. We aim to evaluate the benefit of BTX in the advancement of the lateral musculature and decrease hernia defect width. Material &amp; Methods It was elaborated a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines and registered at PROSPERO. “Ventral hernia”, “incisional hernia”, “abdominal wall” and “botulinum toxin” were searched. PubMed (Medline), EMBASE (OVID) and LILACS databases research. Results Five studies (235 patients) showed tha BTX significantly increases the lateral abdominal wall muscles length (4,07cm) (95%CI (3.65;4.49), p&amp;lt;0,1 I2=47%). Two studies (113 patients) showes that hernia defect width raised 1.24 cm (95%CI (-3.06;5.53), p&amp;lt;0,05, I2=76%) after BTX with or without PPP. Conclusions Increase in the volume of the abdominal cavity after BTX and PPP by enlargement of abdominal wall muscles may be related to improve outcomes such as decreasing abdominal compartiment syndrome and surgical site occurrences. Despite the Increase in the lateral abdominal wall after BTX, the decrease in hernia defect width was not obseved. Insted, meta-analysis showed a tendency of width increasing, taking into account considerable heterogeneity, witch may be related to PPP association. BTX in complex ventral hernias increases lateral abdominal muscles length and, thus, is suposed to decrease poor surgical outcomes, although the transverse diameter of the defect does not reduced as expected. Futher studies are necessary to evaluate benefits of BTX in complete fascial closure.

A comparative study of train-of-four (TOF) count at corrugator supercilii and at adductor pollicis reflecting abdominal muscles relaxation

Introduction: Diaphragm and lateral abdominal muscles frequently show sparing effects to muscle relaxants. This study compared visual estimation of neuromuscular transmission of corrugator supercilii and adductor pollicis (AP) with electromyographic measurements of lateral abdominal wall muscles during recovery from vecuronium-induced intense neuromuscular block. Methods: 60 patients undergoing elective surgeries under general anesthesia were included. Following loss of consciousness, supramaximal stimulations were applied using electrical nerve stimlators to left 10th intercostal, ulnar and facial nerves. Electromyographic activity (EMG) of abdominal wall muscles were measured. After Inj. Vecuronium 0.1 mg/kg, Electromyographic activity measurements counted the visually detectable train-of-four (TOF) responses at corrugator supercilii and adductor pollicis. The onset time, the duration of action and quantitative measurements of neuromuscular block were done. Observations: Clinical duration of action of vecuronium almost coincided with train-of-four response at corrugators supercilii where as train-of-four recovery at adductor policis occurred late during recovery stage. Corrugators supercilii had a stronger positive correlation with abdominal muscles relaxation as compared to the adductor policies. Corrugators supercilii had a stronger correlation coefficient (0.910 vs 0.417) than adductor policis with respect to abdominal muscle. It indicated that corrugator supercilii is a better predictor than AP to measure abdominal muscle relaxation.

Evolution of Respiratory Muscles Thickness in Mechanically Ventilated Patients With COVID-19.

Given the long ventilation times of patients with COVID-19 that can cause atrophy and contractile weakness of respiratory muscle fibers, assessment of changes at the bedside would be interesting. As such, the aim of this study was to determine the evolution of respiratory muscle thickness assessed by ultrasound. Adult (> 18 y old) patients admitted to the ICU who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and were ventilated for < 24 h were consecutively included. The first ultrasound examination (diaphragm, rectus abdominis, and lateral abdominal wall muscles) was performed within 24 h of intubation and regarded as baseline measurement. After that, each following day an additional examination was performed, for a maximum of 8 examinations per subject. In total, 30 subjects were included, of which 11 showed ≥ 10% decrease in diaphragm thickness from baseline; 10 showed < 10% change, and 9 showed ≥ 10% increase from baseline. Symptom duration before intubation was highest in the decrease group (12 [11-14] d, P = .03). Total time ventilated within the first week was lowest in the increase group (156 [129-172] h, P = .03). Average initial diaphragm thickness was 1.4 (1.1-1.6) mm and did not differ from final average thickness (1.3 [1.1-1.5] mm, P = .54). The rectus abdominis did not show statistically significant changes, whereas lateral abdominal wall thickness decreased from 14 [10-16] mm at baseline to 11 [9-13] mm on the last day of mechanical ventilation (P = .08). Mixed-effect linear regression demonstrated an association of atrophy and neuromuscular-blocking agent (NMBA) use (P = .01). In ventilated subjects with COVID-19, overall no change in diaphragm thickness was observed. Subjects with decreased or unchanged thickness had a longer ventilation time than those with increased thickness. NMBA use was associated with decreased thickness. Rectus muscle thickness did not change over time, whereas lateral abdominal muscle thickness decreased but this change was not statistically significant.

O50 ALTERATIONS IN THE ABDOMINAL WALL MUSCULATURE AFTER ENDOSCOPIC ANTERIOR AND OPEN POSTERIOR COMPONENT SEPARATION

Abstract Aim Effects of component separation (CS) on abdominal wall musculature have only been investigated in smaller case series. The study aimed to compare abdominal wall alterations following endoscopic anterior component separation (EACS) or transverse abdominis release (TAR). Material and Methods Computed tomography scans were evaluated in patients who underwent open ventral hernia repair with TAR or EACS. Lateral abdominal wall muscle thickness and displacement were compared with preoperative images after bilateral CS and the undivided side postoperatively after unilateral CS. Results In total, 105 patients were included. The mean defect width was 12.2 cm. Fifty-five (52%) and 15 (14%) underwent bilateral and unilateral EACS, respectively. Five (5%) and 14 (13%) underwent bilateral and unilateral TAR, respectively. Sixteen (15%) underwent unilateral EACS and contralateral TAR. Complete fascial closure was achieved in 103 (98%) patients. The external oblique and transverse abdominis muscles were significantly laterally displaced with a mean of 2.74 cm (95% CI 2.29-3.19 cm) and 0.82 cm (0.07-1.57 cm) after EACS and TAR, respectively. The combined thickness of the lateral muscles was significantly decreased after EACS (mean decrease 10.5% [5.8-15.6%]) and insignificantly decreased after TAR (mean decrease 2.6% [-4.8-9.5%]), mean reduction difference EACS versus TAR 0.22 cm (-0.01-0.46 cm). One (1%) patient developed an iatrogenic linea semilunaris hernia after EACS. The recurrence rate was 19% after mean 1.7 years follow-up. Conclusions The divided muscle was significantly more laterally displaced after EACS compared with TAR. The thickness of the lateral muscles was slightly decreased after EACS and unchanged after TAR.

The Use of Botulinum Toxin in Complex Hernia Surgery: Achieving a Sense of Closure.

Abdominal wall surgeons have developed a host of tools to help facilitate fascial closure. Botulinum toxin A is one of the most recently identified treatments and has grown in popularity over recent years; showing great promise in a number of case series and cohort studies. The toxin paralyses lateral abdominal wall muscles in order to increase laxity of the tissues—facilitating medialisation of the rectus muscles. Several research groups around the world are developing expertise with its use-uncovering its potential. We present a review of the relevant literature over the last two decades, summarising the key evidence behind its indications, dosing and effects.

Management of a hepatic hydatid cyst ruptured into the retroperitoneum and the abdominal wall muscles: A case report

Introduction. Hydatid disease is a zoonosis caused by the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. The liver is the most commonly involved organ, followed by lungs. The most common complications of hepatic hydatid cyst are rupture into the biliary tract and secondary bacterial infection. However, rupture into the retroperitoneum and the abdominal wall muscles is exceptional. Case presentation. We describe an unusual case of a 27-year-old female who was referred to our department for right flank pain for four months. Abdominal ultrasound and CT scan revealed a huge hydatid cyst in liver segment VI fistulizing to the retroperitoneum and the lateral and posterior abdominal wall muscles, causing anterior displacement of the right kidney, with two other cysts in segment II and VIII. Surgery was performed associated with perioperative antiparasitic chemotherapy. The cysts were unroofed and a resection of the protruding domes was performed. The hydatid material in the retroperitoneum and the muscles were completely evacuated by aspiration. Follow-up showed no recurrence. Discussion. Hepatic hydatid cyst rupture usually occurs into biliary tract, pleural cavity, bronchial tree and intraperitoneal cavity. Rupture into the retroperitoneum and the lateral and posterior abdominal wall muscles is exceptional. To our knowledge, this complication has never been documented before. The hydatid disease may involve insidiously for a long time to lead to such a complication. Surgery was inevitable in our case. It allowed to treat both the hydatid cyst and its complication. Conclusions. A rupture into the retroperitoneum and the abdominal wall muscles as a complication of a liver hydatid cyst is exceptional. In this presentation, we noticed that hydatid cysts can reach an extremely large size while remaining for a long time asymptomatic. We aim to highlight the significance of preventive measures and public health education to fight against the hydatid disease in endemic areas.

Abdominal Expansion versus Abdominal Drawing-In Strategy on Thickness and Electromyography of Lumbar Stabilizers in People with Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The abdominal expansion (AE) strategy, involving eccentric contraction of the abdominal muscles, has been increasingly used in clinical practices; however, its effects have not been rigorously investigated. This study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of the AE versus abdominal drawing-in (AD) strategy on lumbar stabilization muscles in people with nonspecific low back pain (LBP). Thirty adults with nonspecific LBP performed the AE, AD, and natural breathing (NB) strategies in three different body positions. Ultrasonography and surface electromyography (EMG) were, respectively, used to measure the thickness and activity of the lumbar multifidus and lateral abdominal wall muscles. The AE and AD strategies showed similar effects, producing higher EMG activity in the lumbar multifidus and lateral abdominal wall muscles when compared with the NB strategy. All muscles showed higher EMG activity in the quiet and single leg standing positions than in the lying position. Although the AE and AD strategies had similar effects on the thickness change of the lumbar multifidus muscle, the results of thickness changes of the lateral abdominal muscles were relatively inconsistent. The AE strategy may be used as an alternative method to facilitate co-contraction of lumbar stabilization muscles and improve spinal stability in people with nonspecific LBP.

Side Strain and Impact Injuries at the Iliac Crest Attachment of Lateral Abdominal Wall Musculature in Cricketers: An Uncommon Injury Pattern.

Side strains refer to injuries of the internal/external oblique or the transversus abdominis, commonly at their attachment to the lower four ribs and rarely at their pelvic attachments. Injuries at the rib attachments are well-described while literature on iliac crest attachment injuries is sparse. We report four cricketers who had side strain and direct impact injuries with varying degrees of severity at the iliac crest attachment. The purpose of this article is to describe the anatomy, possible mechanism of injury, and imaging findings in the lateral abdominal wall muscle injuries at the iliac crest, which have not been described previously.