Laparoscopic Management of Strangulated Broad Ligament Hernia

Introduction: Broad ligament hernia was first reported postautopsy by Quain in 1861. In a 1995 review article, only 61 cases had ever been reported. This paper presents a case report of broad ligament hernia and explores the literature surrounding this topic. Case Presentation: The patient presented with no significant past medical history, acute lower abdominal pain (several hours), nausea, and vomiting. Clinical examination showed a heart rate of 85 beats per minute; normal temperature, blood pressure, and respiratory rate; and a mildly distended abdomen with tenderness across the right lower quadrant. A plain abdominal Xray showed dilated small bowel loops, and a blood test showed leukocytosis. Urgent diagnostic laparoscopy showed a broad ligament strangulated hernia with small bowel infarction. Reduction of the small bowel, resection, and sideside anastomosis were performed. The patient had an uneventful recovery, and follow up reported no postoperative complications. Conclusion: Laparoscopic management of small bowel obstruction due to broad ligament internal hernia is a safe and effective option.