Sigmoid colon fistula following totally extraperitoneal hernioplasty: an improper treatment for mesh infection or iatrogenic injury?

Abstract

There are only a few reports of severe mesh-related complications, and major bowel complications after totally extraperitoneal (TEP) hernioplasty are also rare. A 75-year-old male patient, who had undergone TEP hernioplasty for a left inguinal hernia 2 months previously, presented with a left inguinal swelling that was found to be due to sigmoid colon-related mesh complications following TEP hernioplasty. Infection is an accepted complication of hernia operation; however, it may be more serious following laparoscopic techniques. Successful TEP hernioplasty requires adequate dissection and complete exposure and coverage of all potential sites that cause inguinal hernia. If infection and suppuration are resistant to conservative methods or occur in the early postoperative period, aggressive imaging study and treatment provides definitive treatment and reduces the burden of complications.