Rare but Risky: What You Need to Know About Obturator Hernias

When most people think of hernias, they typically think of common types like inguinal or umbilical hernias. However, there are other, rarer forms of hernias that can pose serious health risks — one of them being the obturator hernia. Though it accounts for less than 1% of all abdominal hernias, an obturator hernia is known for its high risk of serious complications, including bowel obstruction and strangulation.

At Core Surgical in NYC, we have the experience, knowledge, and advanced surgical techniques to safely and effectively treat even the most complex hernias. Our team of board-certified surgeons, with nearly 40 years of combined clinical experience, is dedicated to delivering the highest standard of care for patients facing rare and life-threatening conditions like obturator hernias.

What Is an Obturator Hernia?

An obturator hernia occurs when abdominal tissue or part of the intestine pushes through the obturator canal, a small opening in the pelvic bone. Because of its deep location, this type of hernia is difficult to detect and often goes unnoticed until it causes severe complications.

Obturator hernias are extremely rare, making up less than 0.1% of all hernias in the general population. However, they are more common in:

• Older adults (typically over age 70)
• Women, particularly those who have had multiple pregnancies
• Underweight or malnourished individuals
• Patients with a history of chronic illness or rapid weight loss

While rare, obturator hernias have a high mortality rate of up to 40% if not diagnosed and treated promptly, primarily due to delayed diagnosis and the risk of bowel strangulation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Obturator Hernias

Because obturator hernias are so rare and difficult to detect, many patients have never heard of them until they’re diagnosed — often after experiencing severe symptoms. At Core Surgical in NYC, we believe that informed patients make better health decisions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about obturator hernias to help you better understand this condition, its risks, and the treatment options available.

What are the symptoms of an obturator hernia?

Symptoms can be vague and easily mistaken for other conditions. Common signs include:

• Pelvic or groin pain
• Pain radiating to the inner thigh or knee (Howship-Romberg sign)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Signs of bowel obstruction, including abdominal distention and inability to pass gas or stool

Why are obturator hernias so dangerous?

Because they are difficult to detect and may not present visible lumps or bulges, diagnosis is often delayed. By the time an obturator hernia is identified, it may have already caused a bowel obstruction or tissue strangulation, which can be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

How are obturator hernias diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically requires advanced imaging, such as a CT scan, as physical examination alone is often inconclusive.

What is the treatment for an obturator hernia?

Surgical repair is the only effective treatment. At Core Surgical, our team specializes in both minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures and open surgery, depending on the severity of the hernia and the patient’s condition.

What is the prognosis after surgery?

With timely diagnosis and surgical intervention, the prognosis is good, and most patients recover fully.

Expert Surgical Care for Hernia Repair in NYC

At Core Surgical, our mission is to provide patients with safe, effective, and expert surgical care. Our team of experienced surgeons is well-versed in diagnosing and treating rare hernias like obturator hernias. If you are experiencing unexplained pelvic pain, digestive issues, or symptoms of bowel obstruction, don’t wait.

Contact Core Surgical in New York City today to schedule a consultation and ensure you receive the specialized care you deserve.