Pericecal hernia in a pediatric patient: Case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Pericecal hernia is a rare cause of small bowel obstruction. They tend to affect the adult population more commonly but also may occur in the pediatric age group. CASE PRESENTATION: We herein present a 16-year-old male who presented with 4 days of abdominal pain and distention. CT scan revealed evidence of dilated small bowel loops with evidence of ischemia. A laparotomy was performed and revealed a 20 cm segment of distal ileum protruding through the superior ileocecal recess. Ileocecectomy with primary side to side anastomosis was successfully performed and the patient recovered uneventfully after the procedure. DISCUSSION: Although internal hernias may have a congenital etiology, most of the reported cases have occurred during adulthood and its presentation in childhood is uncommon. CT scan is the key for internal hernia diagnosis and management as it provides information about the presence of bowel obstruction, strangulation, and ischemia. CONCLUSION: High index of clinical suspicion and early intervention saves the patient from extensive bowel resection and other serious complications.