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Background Internal hernias rarely lead to bowel obstruction; they are caused by a natural or unnatural opening within the peritoneal cavity. Defects in the peritoneum are extremely rare. Patients present with features of intestinal obstruction and most cases are diagnosed during surgery. Case Presentation A 47-year-old woman with a history of multiple abdominal surgeries had a small bowel hernia through a peritoneal defect of the anterior abdominal wall. She presented with abdominal pain and distension and was taken to the operating room, where findings revealed an intact fascia and small bowel herniation through a midline peritoneal defect. Conclusion Herniation of small bowel through the peritoneum is a rare type of internal hernia that can manifest in a patient with extensive history of abdominal surgeries. This type of clinical picture warrants a high degree of suspicion for prompt and proper management. Surgery should not be delayed, to avoid increased morbidity and mortality., Highlights • Internal hernias caused by peritoneal defects are very rare. • Most cases are diagnosed intraoperatively. • Careful closure of peritoneal and/or fascial layers is warranted. • Surgery should not be delayed, to avoid increased morbidity and mortality.