Amyand's hernia: A review

Abstract

Amyand’s hernia is defined as when the appendix is trapped within an inguinal hernia. While the incidence of this type of hernia is rare, the appendix may become incarcerated within Amyand’s hernia and lead to further complications such as strangulation and perforation. Incarceration of the appendix most commonly occurs within inguinal and femoral hernias, but may arise to a lesser extent in incisional and umbilical hernias. Incarcerated appendix has been reported in a variety of ventral abdominal and inguinal locations, yet its indistinct clinical presentation represents a diagnostic challenge. This paper reviews the literature on incarceration of the appendix within inguinal hernias and discusses current approaches to diagnosis and treatment of Amyand’s hernia and complications that may arise from incarceration of the appendix within the hernia.

A complicated case of amyand’s hernia involving a perforated appendix and its management using minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery: A case report

“…Accordingly, the contributing pathogenesis is thought to be secondary to increased vulnerability of the appendix to trauma and reduced blood supply, subsequently by generalised inflammation and bacterial growth [1], [8], [12], [13]. Late diagnosis of complicated cases may lead to severe consequences if intervention is delayed [1], [4], [8]; whereas, early intervention and optimal postoperative care demonstrate good prognosis as in our case.…”

“…Amyand’s hernia and its associated complications represent a diagnostic challenge; thus they are usually incidentally discovered intra-operatively [1], [5], [6], [7], [8]. The clinical history, physical examination, laboratory, and radiological findings are generally misleading [8], [9], [10].…”

“…It is estimated that 1% of all hernias contain the appendix or parts of it [1]. Accordingly, incarceration of the appendix within an inguinal hernia is termed Amyand’s hernia.…”

“…A risk of inflammation, infection, or perforation is associated with an Amyand’s hernia [2], [3], [4]. The incidence of appendicitis within an inguinal hernia is rare at 0.1% and that of a perforated appendix is even rarer at 0.01% [1], [5].…”

“…Until recently, open appendectomy was the mainstay of treatment [1], [6]. Laparoscopic surgery offers a less invasive approach to confirming a diagnosis and serving as a therapeutic tool in equivocal cases.…”