Laparoscopic surgery in a patient with foramen of Winslow hernia due to large uterine fibroids: a case report and literature review

BACKGROUND: Foramen of Winslow hernia (FWH) is a rare but emergent condition caused by an increase in the foramen diameter, visceral mobility, and intra-abdominal pressure. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report a case of FWH secondary to large uterine fibroids that was successfully treated with laparoscopic surgery. CASE PRESENTATION: A 52-year-old woman with large uterine fibroids was diagnosed with FWH. Because of the absence of signs of bowel ischemia and peritonitis, we performed an elective laparoscopic surgery through a 5-port system after bowel decompression using a long intestinal tube. Although foramen of Winslow closure was not performed, her postoperative course was uneventful. CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopic surgery for FWH is considered an extremely effective surgical treatment option because of its safety and efficacy in performing delicate procedures (such as adhesiolysis) with a good magnified field of view.