Richter's Hernia

Description

Richter's hernia is a rare form of hernia in which only the antimesenteric wall of a portion of small intestine is herniated through an aperture in the peritoneal cavity. As with other intestinal hernias, the herniated portion may become incarcerated or strangulated, possibly resulting in intestinal obstruction, translocation of luminal bacteria or their products and even perforation.

Signalment

Although unusual, Richter's hernias have been reported to occur in dogs and horses.

Diagnosis

Animals with strangulated hernias or intestinal obstruction may show vomiting. The condition may be diagnosed by ultrasonography, depending on the exact location of the hernial ring.

Treatment

Surgical intervention is required to free the intestine from the hernia and to close the causative defect in the peritoneal cavity.