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Obturator hernia is an unsuspected diagnosis
1Department of Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance 90509, USA.
American Journal of Surgery
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Obturator hernia is a rare condition often diagnosed late, leading to high mortality. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in this challenging surgical emergency.
Area of Science:
- Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Presents 6 cases of obturator hernia, increasing the literature total to 676.
- Highlights the diagnostic challenges and treatment strategies for this severe condition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate diagnostic pitfalls in obturator hernia.
- To examine effective treatment methods for obturator hernia.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 6 obturator hernia patients (all female, average age 79).
- Clinical examination findings (inguinal/vaginal/rectal lump, Howship-Romberg sign, Hannington-Kiff sign).
- Diagnostic imaging (radiographs, CT scans, herniography) and surgical exploration (laparotomy).
Main Results:
- Diagnosis often delayed, with 5/6 patients diagnosed intraoperatively via laparotomy.
- Common comorbidities included dementia, airway disease, cardiac disease, and disseminated carcinoma.
- Mortality rate ranges from 10% to 50% due to patient frailty and diagnostic delays.
Conclusions:
- Obturator hernia carries a high mortality risk, primarily due to delayed diagnosis and patient comorbidities.
- Earlier detection through clinical signs and advanced imaging can potentially reduce morbidity and mortality.