Laparoscopic Management of Renal Paratransplant Hernia

A renal paratransplant hernia is an unusual and potentially serious variant of an internal hernia. It is caused by entrapment of bowel through a defect in the peritoneum adjacent to the transplanted kidney. Abdominal pain and vomiting with or without distention are the main symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and early surgical intervention are critical to prevent serious morbidity and even mortality. Historically, renal paratransplant hernias were repaired via an exploratory laparotomy. We present our experience in two patients with renal paratransplant hernia who were treated with laparoscopic repair.