Bilateral Grynfeltt lumbar hernia: a case report

Abstract

Introduction

Lumbar hernias are rare, with only 200–300 published cases listed in the literature. Two areas are described to have weakness points: the inferior lumbar triangle (Jean-Louis Petit triangle) and the superior lumbar triangle (Grynfeltt–Lesshaft triangle). Clinical diagnosis is confirmed by computed tomography and possibly by ultrasound or radiography. The surgeon must refine the clinical detection of this condition, as most patients do not have sufficient means to have a computed tomography scan performed, which remains the gold standard for diagnosis. Despite the different techniques recommended, the open route remains the most affordable in our environment.

Case presentation

This case presents an 84-year-old black congolese patient consulted for bilateral swellings of the lumbar regions. The patient was married and in the farming profession for several years. The patient had no notion of trauma or fever and no notion of vomiting or stopping of materials and gases. The lumbar region presented with swellings that were ovoid, soft, painless, impulsive and expansive on coughing or hyperpressure, and non-pulsatile, measuring 9 × 7 cm in diameter (right) and 6 × 5 cm in diameter (left). Ultrasound performed of the upper costolumbal region revealed two lipomatous masses facing Grynfeltt’s quadrilateral with a 1.5 cm hole on either side. The diagnosis of bilateral Grynfeltt hernia was made, and herniorrhaphy was indicated.

Conclusion

Grynfeltt–Lesshaft hernia is a rare surgical condition caused by congenital or acquired etiology. A lower back pain or a pain point localized on the hernia in addition to a lumbar mass that reduces when lying down suggests the diagnosis of lumbar hernia.