Acute Strangulated Hernia Causing Intestinal Necrosis

Introduction: Acute strangulated hernia is a surgical emergency characterized by compromised blood supply to herniated bowel.

Epidemiology: It commonly occurs in long-standing untreated hernias, especially in elderly patients.

Pathophysiology: Vascular obstruction leads to ischemia, progressing to intestinal necrosis if untreated.

Clinical Presentation: Patients present with severe groin pain, irreducible swelling, vomiting, and signs of obstruction.

Diagnostic Evaluation: Imaging such as ultrasound or CT helps confirm strangulation and assess bowel viability.

Complications: Delay in treatment can lead to perforation, peritonitis, sepsis, and high mortality.

Management: Immediate resuscitation followed by emergency surgical exploration is the mainstay of treatment.

Prognosis: Outcome depends on timing of intervention and extent of bowel necrosis.

Conclusion: Early recognition and prompt surgery are crucial to reduce morbidity and mortality.