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RACS ASC 2026
Large Bowel Herniation through the Foramen of Winslow: A Case Report and Focused Literature Review
Poster

Poster

Disciplines

General Surgery

Presentation Description

Institution: Mildura Base Public Hospital - Victoria , Australia

Introduction and importance: Foramen of Winslow herniation is a rare type of internal hernia and an uncommon cause of intestinal obstruction. Early diagnosis is critical, as delayed recognition can lead to bowel ischemia and increased morbidity. This report contributes to the limited literature on large-bowel involvement and is presented alongside a focused review of published cases, emphasising the value of prompt CT imaging in reducing surgical morbidity. Presentation of case: A 46-year-old woman presented with acute abdominal pain and vomiting. Computed tomography demonstrated the caecum and ascending colon entrapped within the lesser sac, highly suggestive of a foramen of Winslow hernia. Emergency laparotomy confirmed herniation of the caecum, ascending colon, and terminal ileum without ischemic changes. Reduction was achieved via gentle traction and decompression, followed by colopexy and caecopexy to prevent recurrence. No bowel resection was required. Clinical discussion: Foramen of Winslow hernias represent fewer than 0.1% of all internal hernias and often present with nonspecific symptoms, making pre-operative diagnosis challenging. Cross-sectional imaging, particularly CT, is essential for early identification. Surgical management involves reduction of the herniated bowel, assessment of viability, and fixation procedures to prevent recurrence. While minimally invasive approaches, including laparoscopic and robotic techniques, have been described in selected cases, open surgery remains appropriate in emergency presentations or when bowel viability is uncertain, reinforcing the importance of early recognition to avoid ischemia and resection. Conclusion: Prompt recognition of foramen of Winslow hernia on CT enables timely surgical intervention, often avoiding bowel resection. Awareness of this rare entity and its imaging characteristics facilitates early diagnosis and optimal patient outcomes. Fixation procedures such as colopexy or caecopexy may help prevent recurrence and improve long-term outcomes.
Presenters
Authors
Authors

Dr Sehar Shahid - , Dr Krunal Kathawadia - , Dr Amal Fernando -