Polypropylene mesh repair of traumatic hernia of the vastus lateralis: Case report and review

Abstract

Myofascial herniations of the lower limb are a rare cause of chronic nerve compression and pain. They may have congenital or traumatic origin, and the tibialis anterior muscle is the most frequent localization. A few cases will require operative management. An unusual case of symptomatic, acquired hernia of the vastus lateralis muscle in a young male basketball player is reported. After drainage of a compressive hematoma, the patient developed chronic pain and myositis of the vastus lateralis by friction against the edge of tensor fascia lata muscle. Secondary surgical reconstruction involved a polypropylene mesh repair 4 years after the initial trauma. This procedure has been described in a very small number of patients after iatrogenic lesions in total hip arthroplasty and on anterolateral thigh perforator flap donor site. Instead of denial and stoicism, this simple intervention could be proposed to patients as a therapeutic option.