A Case of Left Obturator Hernia Repaired by Contralaterally Extending the TAPP Technique for Right Inguinal Hernia

Abstract

A 76-year-old woman underwent laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) surgery for right inguinal and femoral hernia. During surgery, a contralateral (left) subclinical obturator hernia was discovered, which was then repaired by contralateral approach using a mesh, wherein the peritoneal dissection of the affected (right) groin was extended to the contralateral side. Although the patient had a history of left inguinal hernia repair with the mesh plug approach, the surgery was completed without major intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, the right inguinal symptoms resolved and no major complications occurred. As laparoscopic surgery becomes more prevalent, obturator hernias may be accidentally discovered. The contralateral approach may be a treatment option for obturator hernia repair considering the risk of intestinal obstruction.