Obturator hernia needs a laparotomy, not a diagnosis

The obturator hernia is rare, accounting for only 0.05% of all hernias and 0.2% of all small-bowel obstructions requiring laparotomy at our institution. Typically, there is a delay in diagnosis and surgical intervention, despite the presence of a bowel obstruction. A laparotomy is needed, not a preoperative diagnosis.