An obturator hernia can be difficult to recognize because it often does not create the obvious external bulge people associate with a hernia. Instead, symptoms may resemble a bowel problem or cause pain that travels through the pelvis and inner thigh.
This rare pelvic hernia deserves prompt medical attention because bowel can become trapped within the defect. Dr. Brian Jacob, MD, FACS, of NYC Hernia in New York, NY, is an internationally recognized hernia surgeon whose practice includes complex and uncommon hernia conditions. He has performed thousands of hernia procedures and teaches as a Clinical Professor of Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
What Is an Obturator Hernia?
What Are the Symptoms of an Obturator Hernia?
Symptoms can be vague, which is one reason diagnosis may be challenging. Possible signs include:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal bloating
- Difficulty passing stool or gas
- Symptoms of bowel obstruction
- Pain along the inner thigh
- Pain that increases with certain hip movements
Inner thigh pain caused by irritation of the obturator nerve is sometimes called the Howship-Romberg sign. It can point toward an obturator hernia, but it is not present in every case.
Sudden severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, marked abdominal swelling, or inability to pass stool or gas warrants urgent medical evaluation.
How Is an Obturator Hernia Diagnosed?
Because an obturator hernia usually cannot be identified simply by looking at the abdomen, imaging is particularly valuable. CT imaging is commonly used to locate the hernia and determine whether bowel has become trapped.
The surgeon also considers symptoms, medical history, physical examination findings, and signs of intestinal obstruction. Prompt recognition is especially important when bowel compromise is suspected.
How Is an Obturator Hernia Treated?
Obturator hernias are treated surgically. The exact operation depends heavily on how the patient presents.
An elective repair may be approached differently from an emergency involving bowel obstruction or strangulation. Surgery may involve an open or minimally invasive technique. The surgeon may repair the defect with sutures or mesh depending on the anatomy, condition of the bowel, and whether contamination is present.
If part of the intestine has lost its blood supply or has become damaged, bowel resection may also be necessary.
What Happens After Obturator Hernia Surgery?
Recovery varies considerably because some patients receive treatment before bowel complications occur while others require emergency surgery.
After repair, the medical team monitors bowel function, pain, mobility, and the surgical site. Activity gradually increases as healing progresses. Patients who require bowel surgery or treatment for an obstruction may need a more involved recovery.
Why Choose NYC Hernia for Obturator Hernia in New York, NY?
A rare hernia calls for a surgeon who understands both subtle presentations and the range of operations that may be needed once the anatomy is evaluated. Dr. Jacob has concentrated much of his career on hernia surgery, chronic groin pain, and complex abdominal conditions.
His work extends beyond the operating room. As founder and president of the International Hernia Collaboration, he has helped create educational opportunities connecting thousands of hernia surgeons around the world. He has also authored and co-authored peer-reviewed research, book chapters, and surgical textbooks devoted to hernia repair and groin pain.
Seek Expert Evaluation for an Obturator Hernia
An obturator hernia may remain difficult to identify until bowel symptoms develop. When the condition is suspected, accurate diagnosis and appropriate surgical care are particularly important because intestinal obstruction and strangulation can occur.
To discuss obturator hernia treatment with Dr. Brian Jacob, book a consultation at NYC Hernia in New York, NY. Call 212-879-6677 or schedule online (opens in new tab).
