EMERGENCY SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF AMYAND HERNIA: A CASE SERIES STUDY

  • Cătălin Cosma Emergency County Clinical Hospital Tg.Mureș (SCJU) & George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș
  • Marian Botoncea Emergency County Clinical Hospital Tg.Mureș (SCJU) & George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș
  • Cosmin Nicolescu Emergency County Clinical Hospital Tg.Mureș (SCJU) & George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș
  • Călin Molnar Emergency County Clinical Hospital Tg.Mureș (SCJU) & George Emil Palade University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Science, and Technology of Târgu Mureș
Keywords: Amyand hernia, appendectomy, inguinal hernia, emergency surgery

Abstract

Introduction: Amyand’s hernia, named after Claudius Amyand, is a rare hernia variant characterized by the presence of the vermiform appendix within the hernial sac. Accounting for about 1% of all inguinal hernias, its exact development mechanism remains unclear. The clinical presentation can vary significantly, often mirroring symptoms of a hernia or acute appendicitis.

Material & Method: A retrospective case series study was conducted at the General Surgery Clinic 1 of the SCJU Tg. Mures Emergency County Hospital. It involved a comprehensive review of medical records of patients diagnosed with Amyand’s hernia who underwent emergency surgery. Data collected included demographics, clinical presentation, surgical management, postoperative complications, and follow-up details. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using EasyMedStat software.

Results: Over five years, seven cases of Amyand’s hernia were reported, with an increase in 2023. The average age of the patients was 77.8 years, all male, demonstrating a higher incidence in older males. Symptom onset varied widely, from four months to nearly 20 years. Most patients experienced abdominal pain, with approximately half reporting fever. The primary diagnosis was often intestinal occlusion with an incarcerated inguinal-scrotal hernia. Surgical approaches varied, with the Lichtenstein operation being the most common. Mesh repair was used in most cases, and all patients underwent appendectomy. The median hospital stay was five days, with minimal postoperative complications.

Conclusion: Amyand’s hernia presents a surgical challenge due to its rarity and variable clinical presentation. This study underscores the need for individualized treatment strategies to optimize patient outcomes. The findings contribute to understanding Amyand’s hernia, highlighting the importance of tailored surgical approaches and diligent postoperative care.

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Published
2023-12-21