Laparoscopic diagnosis and repair of Spigelian hernia: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Spigelian hernias are a rare type of hernia which protrude through the abdominal wall at the semilunar line. They are especially difficult to diagnose due to their location and non-specific symptoms and are often overlooked because of their positioning between muscular layers. Patients may present with localized pain which can aid the diagnosis. CT and ultrasound are also helpful. Presentation of case: We present the case of a 75-year-old female patient who presented to Hialeah Hospital with a one-year history of abdominal pain localized to the left lower quadrant. DISCUSSION: A Spigelian hernia containing omentum, was found during a diagnostic laparoscopy. The hernia was reduced, and the abdominal defect was repaired via primary repair, reinforced by mesh. The patient recovered uneventfully. CONCLUSION: Nonspecific physical exam findings and inconclusive imaging studies represented a diagnostic challenge. Here we discuss a case of a Spigelian hernia discovered through diagnostic laparoscopy.