An unusual case of small-bowel obstruction: Broad ligament hernia

Broad ligament hernias (BLHs) are rare internal hernias that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. In this case report, we present the case of a BLH in a female patient and discuss its clinical presentation, diagnosis and management. A 40-year-old woman presented with subacute intestinal obstruction symptoms, including the inability to pass flatus and faeces and recurrent bilious vomiting. A computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed small-bowel obstruction adjacent to the uterus within the left broad ligament. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed a loop of obstructed small intestine within the broad ligament, which was released and found to be healthy. The defect between the broad and infundibulopelvic ligaments was closed with sutures. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was asymptomatic at a 6-month follow-up. BLHs can be congenital or acquired, with acquired defects often resulting from previous surgeries or pregnancy-related causes. The clinical presentation typically involves the symptoms of bowel obstruction, and a CT scan is the diagnostic modality of choice, showing characteristic findings such as closed-loop obstruction and bowel dilation. Laparoscopic management offers the advantages of faster recovery and less morbidity. Closure of the defect using nonabsorbable sutures is the standard surgical approach, although a wide opening of the defect has also been described. Recurrence is a possibility, particularly if absorbable sutures are used for closure. This case report highlights the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in BLHs to prevent the complications and emphasises the role of laparoscopy in their management.