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Published on: January 7, 2019
Two different surgical approaches for strangulated obturator hernias
Siow Sze Li1, Voon Kenneth Kher Ti
1Department of Surgery, Sarawak General Hospital, Jalan Hospital, 93586 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences : MJMS
|September 15, 2012
Summary
Obturator hernia, a rare cause of bowel obstruction, is hard to diagnose pre-operatively. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial to prevent complications like bowel perforation and reduce mortality.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Sciences
Background:
- Obturator hernia is a rare condition often presenting with non-specific symptoms, making pre-operative diagnosis challenging.
- It frequently leads to small-bowel obstruction, with a high risk of strangulation and perforation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present two cases of strangulated obturator hernia managed with different surgical approaches.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of computed tomography (CT) scans and review the surgical management of obturator hernias.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two patients with strangulated obturator hernia.
- Review of diagnostic modalities, emphasizing CT scan accuracy.
- Discussion of open and laparoscopic surgical management strategies.
Main Results:
- Computed tomography scans demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy for obturator hernias.
- Both open and laparoscopic approaches were utilized for surgical management.
- Timely surgical intervention is critical for favorable outcomes.
Conclusions:
- A high index of suspicion is necessary for diagnosing obturator hernias, particularly in elderly, emaciated women with unexplained small-bowel obstruction.
- CT imaging significantly aids in pre-operative diagnosis.
- Prompt surgical management, either open or laparoscopic, is essential to prevent catastrophic complications.
