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Broad ligament defect causing internal hernia: A case report and literature review
Jie He1, Yan Wen2, Banzhu Zhang1
1Department of General surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Panzhihua University, Panzhihua, China.
Medicine
|October 25, 2025
Summary
Broad ligament hernias are rare and present with non-specific symptoms. Early diagnosis via CT scans and laparoscopic repair leads to a swift recovery and resolution of intestinal obstruction.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Innovation
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Intra-abdominal hernias are uncommon, with broad ligament hernias representing a small fraction (4-7%) of cases.
- The incidence of intra-abdominal hernia is low, ranging from 0.2% to 0.9% in autopsy series.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of a rare broad ligament hernia.
- To highlight the diagnostic utility of computed tomography (CT) and laparoscopy.
- To emphasize the effectiveness of timely surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- A 39-year-old woman presented with acute lower abdominal pain and distension.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed a cystic adnexal mass with gas density.
- Laparoscopy identified a left-sided broad ligament defect causing internal hernia.
Main Results:
- The patient underwent laparoscopic repair of the broad ligament defect.
- Gastrointestinal function was restored on postoperative day 1, with discharge on day 3.
- Follow-up showed complete resolution of symptoms and normal bowel function.
Conclusions:
- Broad ligament hernias are rare and lack specific clinical signs.
- CT scans are crucial for diagnosing suspected broad ligament hernias, especially when intestinal obstruction is present.
- Laparoscopic intervention allows for early diagnosis, hernia reduction, and defect repair, leading to excellent outcomes.
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