A rare cause of acute abdomen in a child: Left paraduodenal hernia

Paraduodenal hernias are the most common type of internal hernias. Although congenital, they typically present in the fourth or fifth decade of life and are rare in children. A 14-yearold male presented with abdominal pain and vomiting. Computed tomography revealed clustered, dilated small bowel loops in the left upper quadrant, adjacent to the inferior mesenteric vessels. Diagnostic laparoscopy identified a mesenteric defect posterior to the inferior mesenteric vein, through which all intestinal loops from the Treitz ligament to the ileocecal valve herniated. After reducing the herniated loops, the defect was repaired using intracorporeal sutures, and the patient was discharged on postoperative Day 2. At six months of follow-up, his recovery was uneventful. In conclusion, left paraduodenal hernias are rare but may present acutely with obstruction signs. Computed tomography is crucial for diagnosis and surgical planning. Laparoscopy offers advantages such as precise repair and more rapid recovery. Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention are essential for preventing complications and achieving favorable outcomes.