Gastric outlet obstruction secondary to caecal herniation into the lesser sac

Abstract

Internal hernias comprise 1% of hernias, 8% of which are through the foramen of Winslow into the lesser sac. These hernias can mimic gastric outlet obstruction and cause associated morbidity. In this case, we describe a caecal herniation into the lesser sac presenting as true gastric outlet obstruction in a 69-year-old female. Initial computed tomography (CT) imaging demonstrated a distended stomach with collapsed small bowel representing likely gastric outlet obstruction. Nasogastric tube insertion decompressed the stomach but the clinical picture progressed to that of small bowel obstruction with generalized abdominal distension and hypoactive bowel sounds. Repeat CT demonstrated caecal herniation into the lesser sac. This was confirmed at exploratory laparotomy with the caecum found in the lesser sac via the foramen of Winslow. The caecum was grossly ischaemic with patchy necrosis. A limited right hemicolectomy was performed. The patient made an uncomplicated recovery and was discharged on the eighth post-operative day.

Figure 1:

CT abdomen coronal reconstruction demonstrating obstructed stomach with obstructed and dilated caecum present in lesser sac.

Figure 2:

Axial section of CT abdomen demonstrating NG tube in stomach, with successful decompression of obstructed gastric outlet, however obstructed caecum clearly visible within lesser sac.