INTERNAL HERNIAS

Internal hernias are rare hernias and occur when an organ or part of the intestine protrudes through an opening or defect within the abdominal cavity, leading to an abnormal positioning of the abdominal structures. Unlike external hernias, where the bulging is visible externally, internal hernias involve the displacement of organs or tissues within the abdominal space. These hernias occur due to abnormal spaces or openings left inside the abdomen when the organs are developing. Paraduodenal, paracecal, broad ligament, foramen of Winslow, obturator, transomental, intersigmoid, are some of the internal hernias named as per the anatomical structure they violate. 

They may be acquired as a result of a previous intestinal surgery like bariatric surgery or cancer surgery where a defect in the mesentery opens up and traps the surrounding intestine causing a twist and obstruction. These hernias can be difficult to diagnose and may present late with life-threatening complications requiring emergency surgery.