Internal herniation of the cecum through the foramen of Winslow—a case report

Foramen of Winslow hernias are a rare, but dangerous form of internal hernia that can present in individuals with signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction. This case report details operative management of a cecal herniation through the foramen of Winslow in an elderly male with no prior history of intra-abdominal surgery. The patient presented with worsening abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and obstipation. Due to the clinical picture of a complete bowel obstruction and subsequent imaging findings, an urgent abdominal exploration was performed. During the procedure, the cecum was found to be ischemic and strangulated in the lesser sac, herniated through the foramen of Winslow. Following operative reduction and right hemicolectomy, it was decided to close the foramen of Winslow to prevent recurrence and future complications. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative course with resolution of symptoms.