Incisional hernia after McBurney incision: complications of an unusual hernia

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, most series over incisional hernia do not mention this hernia occurring in McBurney’s laparotomy. The reported incidence for this type of hernia is 0.7% to 2%. Even more scarce are publications regarding its complications. The purpose of this report is to discuss the diagnostic, treatment and outcomes of two patients operated on our institution for complicated McBurney´s hernia.

Report of Cases: Two female patients 68 and 65 years-old operated on emergency grounds for complicated incisional hernia over a McBurney´s incision are described. Postoperative evolution was different in both cases and one of them died.

Discussion: We discuss risk factor for this specific incisional hernia development, its diagnosis and treatment. Besides, the importance of laparoscopic appendectomy was stressed.

Conclusions: Complicated incisional hernia over McBurney’s incision is an infrequent severe clinical condition habitually diagnosed late. The widespread utilization of laparoscopic appendectomy will reduce even more the incidence of this kind of hernia within the next few years.