Obturator hernia: a persisting clinical diagnostic challenge - a case report
Sushim Bhujel1, Sanjit Adhikari2, Prashant Pant3
1College of Medical Sciences - Teaching Hospital, Bharatpur.
Annals of Medicine and Surgery (2012)
|June 7, 2024
Summary
Strangulated obturator hernias are rare but dangerous, often presenting with vague symptoms. Early diagnosis and surgical repair, such as midline laparotomy, are critical for preventing severe complications and ensuring patient recovery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Obturator hernias are uncommon abdominal wall defects, representing less than 0.04% of all hernias.
- These hernias predominantly affect elderly women and can lead to severe complications if diagnosis is delayed.
Observation:
- An 85-year-old woman presented with symptoms of intestinal obstruction, including abdominal pain and vomiting.
- Computed tomography confirmed an incarcerated obturator hernia as the cause of the obstruction.
Findings:
- Surgical intervention via a lower midline laparotomy successfully reduced the incarcerated bowel and repaired the hernia.
- The patient experienced an uncomplicated recovery and was discharged on postoperative day four, with no recurrence at three months.
Implications:
- The case highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with obturator hernias, where classic clinical signs may be absent.
- Prompt surgical management, including laparotomy for reduction and repair, is essential for favorable outcomes in strangulated obturator hernias.
