Amyand’s Hernia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

INTRODUCTION Amyand’s hernia (AH) is defined as an inguinal hernia containing the appendix in the hernial sac. It is a rare form of hernia comprising up to 1% of all inguinal hernia cases. This rare entity is named after the French-born English surgeon, Dr. Claudius Amyand. Most patients with AH often remain asymptomatic and are diagnosed intraoperatively. CLINICAL HISTORY A 44-year-old man with a normal body mass index who had a history of right-sided reducible inguinoscrotal swelling for 5 years was admitted for elective right inguinal hernia repair. Ultrasound of the abdomen and groin reported an indirect inguinal hernia. Laboratory parameters were within normal limits. Based on this diagnosis of right-sided reducible indirect inguinal hernia, the patient underwent open hernia repair surgery. Perioperatively, the appendix was identified within, and adherent to, the hernial sac. The appendix was mildly congested, with no gross evidence of inflammation. The patient was subsequently treated with an appendectomy and tension-free hernia repair with mesh, with a successful outcome. CONCLUSION AH makes up only a small proportion of most inguinal hernia cases, and its diagnosis is usually based on an incidental finding intraoperatively. This condition may remain asymptomatic and behave like a normal inguinal hernia. More studies are needed to understand the physiology of this type of hernia. In addition, more cases should be reported to help establish guidelines for diagnosing and treating this hernia. Laparoscopy in cases of AH is frequently employed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, although increased clinical vigilance and awareness are essential to ensure optimal patient outcomes in cases of inguinoscrotal pathology.