Colocutaneous Fistula after Open Inguinal Hernia Repair

Abstract EN

The plug-and-patch technique is frequently used for the open repair of inguinal hernias; however, serious complications may arise on rare occasions.

We present the case of a 69-year-old patient who presented with a colocutaneous fistula with the sigmoid colon 9 years after the repair of a left sliding inguinal hernia with the plug-and-patch technique.

The patient underwent sigmoidectomy and excision of the fistulous track.

He was discharged on postoperative day 5 and had an uneventful recovery.

Although such complications are reported rarely, the surgeon must be aware of them when deciding upon the method of hernia repair.