Atypical Lateral Abdominal Wall Hernia: A Rare Occurrence

Abstract

Lateral abdominal wall hernias are generally uncommon surgical pathology. An extremely rare type is that occurring without preceding
trauma or surgery. Furthermore, a unique subtype is that occurring in the subcostal region along the midaxillary line and is here described as atypical. These hernias are distinct from lumbar and spigelian hernias, and due to their rare occurrence, no consensus exists  regarding the best or standardised method of repair. These hernias, due to their infrequent presentations, may be misdiagnosed  as subcutaneous lipoma and progress to such a size that may cause significant morbidity. We present a case of a 57‑year‑old man with a  symptomatic atypical lateral abdominal wall hernia that was offered open intermuscular mesh repair with a good outcome.