Obturator hernia, rare cause of bowel obstruction in an old female: a case series

Introduction and importance: Obturator hernia (OH) is a rare type of abdominal wall hernia that constitutes <1% of all abdominal hernias and is responsible for 0.2–1.6 % of the cases of mechanical small bowel obstruction. Case report: We report three cases of OH in elderly frail patients who presented to the ER with small bowel obstruction. Emergency laparotomy and suturing of the hernial defects with resection anastomosis (two cases) and ileostomy (one case) were done. Clinical discussion: Early diagnosis is often challenging due to its nonspecific clinical features and inconclusive clinical examination, leading to delayed diagnosis and subsequently high morbidity and mortality. Contrast-enhanced computed Tomography (CECT) scans of the abdomen and pelvis remain the cornerstone of diagnosis. Prompt surgical intervention is the definitive treatment. Conclusion: This case series highlights an OH as a rare cause of bowel obstruction in an elderly, frail female. Early diagnosis and prompt surgery can reduce morbidity and mortality.