Obturator hernias

Abstract

Obturator hernias are an uncommon type of abdominal hernia, occurring at the pelvic floor. Clinical presentation is vague with symptoms including nausea and vomiting secondary to intestinal obstruction as well as inner thigh pain which can be clinically exacerbated by hip and knee flexion (Howship-Romberg sign). Imaging modalities such as computed tomography and ultrasound allow visualisation of the herniated tissue within the obturator foramen. Surgical reduction of the herniated contents is the standard intervention and can be performed via open or laparoscopic techniques.