Abstract Generalised weakness of the abdominal wall can lead to its failure to contain the abdominal viscera within the confines of the abdominal cavity, resulting in simultaneous hernias at different sites. We propose that this entity should be termed ‘abdominal wall failure’, and the laparoscopic approach is ideal for the management of such a condition. This report presents the case of a patient with concurrent hiatal hernia, bilateral direct inguinal hernias, bilateral femoral hernias and recurrent paraumbilical hernia, managed laparoscopically.