[Spigelian hernia. A case of typical Spigelian hernia in an elderly man].

A case of typical Spigelian hernia in an elderly patient successfully treated with operation is reported. A Spigelian hernia, protrusion of preperitoneal fat and peritoneal sac through the Spigelian aponeurosis, may present with uncharacteristic abdominal pain and a palpable mass along the Spigelian aponeurosis. Patients who complain of pain but have no visible or palpable lump present the greatest difficulty in diagnosis. Ultrasound examination is a valuable diagnostic tool both in palpable and nonpalpable Spigelian hernias. The treatment is surgical, with excellent results and low risk of recurrence.