Acute Intestinal Obstruction Due to Obturator Hernia: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• General Surgery
• Abdominal Surgery

Background:

• Obturator hernias are rare and frequently diagnosed intraoperatively due to nonspecific symptoms.
• Late diagnosis contributes to high patient mortality, particularly in elderly individuals with comorbidities.

Observation:

• Presents three cases of obturator hernia in elderly patients with acute intestinal obstruction.
• All patients underwent open surgical repair, with some requiring bowel resection due to gangrene.

Findings:

• All three patients recovered well and were discharged in good health.
• No recurrence was observed during the follow-up period.

Implications:

• Suggests considering obturator hernia in the differential diagnosis for elderly, thin women presenting with acute intestinal obstruction.
• Highlights the importance of early diagnosis and surgical intervention to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with obturator hernias.