Strangulated intestinal hernia through a drain site

AbstractIntroductionIntra-abdominal drains have been widely used in order to prevent intra-abdominal fluid accumulation and detection of anastomotic leakage.Presentation of caseWe herein report a case of small bowel herniation followed by strangulation in an 82 year old woman who had undergone sigmoidectomy for colorectal cancer.DiscussionAlthough several complications related to drain usage such as drainsite infection, hemorrhage and intestinal perforation may occur, intestinal incarceration through drain site is rarely reported.ConclusionDrains must be used with caution and only if indicated. Careful insertion, regular post-operative or post-removal inspection is strongly recommended