Strangulated hernia through a defect in the broad ligament: a sheep in wolf’s clothing

Abstract

Small bowel obstruction due to an internal hernia is an uncommon finding and, when caused by a defect in the broad ligament, it is exceptionally rare. This condition should be considered when evaluating all female patients presenting with de novo small bowel obstruction. We report an unusual case of intestinal obstruction from an internal hernia through the left broad ligament in a middle-aged patient with no prior surgical history and discuss the relevant literature and treatment. Although an oncologic diagnosis should be entertained, a small bowel obstruction arising in the pelvis may involve the broad ligament in parous patients. An internal hernia through the broad ligament should be considered in the differential diagnoses of female patients presenting with intestinal obstruction.