Strangulated Amyand's hernia containing gangrenous appendix and cecum in a preterm neonate.

Abstract

Amyand's hernia defined as the presence of the appendix within an inguinal hernia sac, is rare in neonates and can deteriorate quickly. We report a preterm male twin (33 + 6 weeks; 1460 g) presenting at 1 month with 24 hours of progressive right inguinoscrotal swelling, erythema, irritability, and absent stooling. Exam showed a tender, nonreducible, non-transilluminating mass with abdominal distension. X-ray revealed dilated bowel loops; ultrasound suggested an indirect right inguinal hernia containing an inflamed appendix. Urgent inguinal exploration found incarcerated viable cecum and a gangrenous appendix. Appendectomy through the same incision with high sac ligation and posterior wall repair (no mesh) was performed. Recovery was uneventful: feeds resumed, weight gain continued, and the ipsilateral testis remained viable. This Type 2 Amyand's hernia shows localized vascular compromise of the appendix in preterm infants and supports immediate targeted ultrasound and prompt surgery to avert perforation, sepsis, and gonadal injury.