Blunt trauma-induced abdominal wall hernia
with small bowel incarceration: case report
and review of the literature

Blunt trauma-induced abdominal wall hernia
with small bowel incarceration: case report
and review of the literature

Traumatic abdominal wall hernia, Blunt trauma, Bowel obstruction, Mesh repair, Case report

Abstract
Background Traumatic abdominal wall hernia (TAWH) is a rare sequela of blunt abdominal trauma, characterized
by disruption of the abdominal musculature and fascia without skin penetration. Diagnosis may be challenging and
delayed, with complications such as bowel incarceration or strangulation requiring urgent intervention. This report
describes a TAWH complicated by bowel obstruction, followed by a narrative review of relevant literature.
Case presentation A 69-year-old male presented with acute abdominal pain, vomiting, and a right flank mass,
three days after a road traffic accident. Physical examination revealed a tender, irreducible swelling with overlying
abrasions and ecchymosis. Laboratory results were unremarkable. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT)
demonstrated an anterior abdominal wall defect containing dilated small bowel loops with features of obstruction
and possible strangulation. Emergency exploratory laparotomy revealed incarcerated but viable bowel loops within
a traumatic defect. The loops were reduced, and a preperitoneal mesh repair was performed. Postoperative recovery
was uneventful, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 3.
Conclusion TAWH, though rare, should be suspected in patients with localized swelling after blunt trauma. Prompt
imaging and timely surgical repair are essential to prevent life-threatening complications.
Keywords Traumatic abdominal wall hernia, Blunt trauma, Bowel obstruction, Mesh repair, Case report

Imen Ben Ismail1*, Marwen Sghaier1

, Hakim Zenaidi1

, Houssem Messoudi2

, Saber Rebii1

and Ayoub Zoghlami1

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12245-026-01127-y

2026

peri irawan

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