Citation

Vucetich N, Andresen M, Hasbún P, Regueira T, Ibáñez L, González A. J. Emerg. Med. 2012; 42(5): 529-531.

Affiliation

Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jemermed.2009.03.028

PMID

19464137

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Intestinal perforation caused by blunt trauma to an inguinal hernia is a very uncommon event. CASE REPORT: We present the case of a 55-year old man who suffered trauma to the inguinal area while playing soccer and later developed intense abdominal pain with no categorical signs of peritoneal irritation. Computed tomography scan at arrival showed a right inguinal hernia, with partial protrusion of the ileum, inflammatory changes of the mesenteric fat tissue inside the hernial sac, and free intraperitoneal fluid. Several hours later he developed hypotension and fever. An emergency laparotomy was performed, revealing ileum perforation with peritonitis. Intestinal perforation was repaired without intestinal resection. After surgery, the patient developed severe septic shock with multiple organ failure. He recovered without sequelae and was discharged 3 weeks later.

CONCLUSION: This case emphasizes the potential clinical complications associated with this condition.

Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Language: en