title: Case report: Complex retroperitoneal herniation after abdominoperineal resection.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  We describe the occurrence of a retroperitoneal hernia into the colonic mesentery after abdomoniperineal resection (APR) for rectal cancer.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 70year old male presented with complete small bowel obstruction secondary to a complex retroperitoneal herniation. Operative repair was carried out with successful reduction of the hernia contents.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  A review of the literature is reported concerning retroperitoneal hernia. This occurrence is rare in the adult. Management of the resultant pelvic space after APR is discussed. Closure of the pelvic peritoneum is helpful in avoiding this and other similar complications.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  We believe this to be the first report of a small bowel obstruction secondary to this unusual hernia circumstance. Although rare, due vigilance and thorough imaging can lead to effective and timely management of this complication.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatric Surgery, Miami Children's Hospital, 3200 S.W. 60th Court, Suite 201, Miami, FL 33155, USA. Electronic address: falkhoury@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Fuad
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Alkhoury
authors.forename: Jeremiah
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Martin