Small-bowel obstruction secondary to pericecal hernia.

Pericecal hernia is a rare type of internal hernia and, though congenital in origin, may occur at any age, usually with symptoms of acute intestinal obstruction. The pathophysiology and character of these defects are described, and the management of this situation in an 80-year-old patient is reported. Prompt operative intervention to avoid the associated high mortality secondary to strangulation is urged. It is suggested that closure of these defects be performed if incidentally found at laparotomy.