De Garengeot Hernia

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES We report a case of appendicitis presenting in an incarcerated femoral hernia, otherwise known as de Garengeot hernia. This rare hernia usually presents with both diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. We wish to underline the usefulness of laparoscopy in both the diagnosis and treatment of de Garengeot hernias. METHODS A diagnostic laparoscopy was performed initially. The appendix was seen to disappear into the hernia sac. A laparoscopic appendectomy was then performed prior to open exploration of the groin. RESULTS We were able to obtain a correct diagnosis and perform an appendectomy prior to making a groin incision. Operative findings included an incarcerated, inflamed appendix within a femoral hernia. CONCLUSIONS Diagnostic laparoscopy could be a valuable tool in the correct diagnosis and management of unusual presentations of incarcerated groin hernias.