Obturator hernia: an elusive diagnosis

Obturator hernia is an uncommon problem that occurs predominantly in elderly, debilitated women. The diagnosis should be suspected in such patients who have evidence of small bowel obstruction, often initially intermittent, and who complain of pain along the anteromedial aspect of the thigh. We present experience with three patients that characterizes the difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. Most patients require resection of the incarcerated bowel. Mortality is variable and is related to the condition of the patient.