A case of Amyand hernia at the Central Hospital of Yaounde and review of the literature

Abstract

Amyand's hernia is defined as an inguinal hernia, containing the appendix in the hernia sac. It is a rare form of hernia. Its management is increasingly codified. A 5-year-old patient with a non-remarkable past history was brought for consultation with an intermittent inguino-scrotal swelling and discomfort. Clinical examination revealed a non-tender inguino-scrotal swelling with positive transillumination. A conclusion of a communicating hydrocele was made; hence, an indication for surgery. Per operatively, we had as findings the appendix present within, and linked to the hernia sac. We performed an appendectomy and a high ligation of the hernia sac. The post-operative evolution was favourable. Anatomopathological analysis revealed a catarrhal appendix. Amyand's hernia remains a rare pathology that can be seen in children with a persistent peritoneo-vaginal canal. Dissection of the hernia sac must be carried out carefully since it is most often discovered intraoperatively and accidental injury to the appendix, which is attached to the wall of the hernia sac can lead to serious complications.