Spontaneous enteroscrotal fistula following an incarcerated inguinal hernia in a neonate: Case report and literature review

• Published in: International journal of surgery case reports 2022-01, Vol.90, p.106656-106656, Article 106656
• Main Authors: Houegban, Amoussou Sedjro Clotaire Romeo, Assan, Beaudelaire Romulus, Guedenon, Medard Ayawo, Noukpozounkou, Sourou Bruno, Gogan, Mahunakpon Vihotogbe Leon Samuel Boris, Yassegoungbe, Monsoia Gildas, Gbenou, Antoine Seraphin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Case Report; Enteroscrotal; Fistula; Hernia; Inguinal; Literature; Neonate
• ISSN: 2210-2612; 2210-2612
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2021.106656

In Africa, frequent delays in seeking medical attention due to cultural considerations and lack of financial support could explain some particular clinical presentations. An enteroscrotal fistula following an incarcerated inguinal hernia is a rare condition in neonates. A 21-day-old infant was brought to our consultation for persistent stool discharge from the right scrotum for three days. The parents reported an inguinoscrotal swelling that had been evolving for ten days before admission and became painful two days later. He was diagnosed with a case of enteroscrotal fistula. After correction of electrolytes disorders, a laparotomy was performed through a right lower transverse incision. Operative findings were strangulated inguinal hernia with ileal perforation. Resection and end-to-end ileo-ileal anastomosis was performed. He was discharged from the hospital on the 6th post-operative day. No recurrence within the first year of follow-up. Thirteen cases have been reported in the literature until now. Most of them were from developing countries, including ours. Early seeking medical attention of incarcerated inguinal hernias is necessary to reduce their morbidity and mortality. Paediatricians should emphasize providing adequate information, education and communication during routine examinations of neonates. We advocate the popularization of universal health insurance to facilitate health care. •Enteroscrotal fistula is an uncommon condition following incarcerated inguinal hernia in neonate.•Thirteen cases have been reported in literature until now.•Most of cases were reported in countries with limited resources.•Delay in seeking medical attention is thought to be the main cause of enteroscrotal fistula.