PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which type of hernia is most commonly found in thin, elderly women and can cause small bowel obstruction?

1. Inguinal hernia

2. Obturator hernia

3. Femoral hernia

4. Umbilical hernia

The correct answer is: Obturator hernia

An obturator hernia is most commonly found in thin, elderly women and is notable for its potential to cause small bowel obstruction. This type of hernia occurs when abdominal contents protrude through the obturator canal, which is a passageway in the pelvis. Due to the anatomical features and the location of this type of hernia, it can easily become incarcerated or strangulated, leading to bowel obstruction. The demographics of patients affected play a significant role; obturator hernias are particularly prevalent in thin, older women, as the pelvic anatomy and the lack of subcutaneous fat surrounding the canal make them more susceptible to this hernia type. The presentation often includes nonspecific abdominal pain and can be challenging to diagnose since the signs may mimic other conditions. Other hernia varieties, like inguinal and femoral hernias, are more common in men or have different risk factors and demographic profiles. An umbilical hernia is usually more common in infants or individuals with obesity and is not specifically associated with the demographic mentioned. Therefore, the obturator hernia's specific association with thin, elderly women and the likelihood of causing small bowel obstruction makes it the correct choice in this context.