Incarcerated femoral hernia containing ovary and fallopian tube in a postmenopausal woman: a rare case report.

Abstract

Femoral hernias account for a small proportion of groin hernias but occur more frequently in women and elderly individuals. Herniation of adnexal structures such as the ovary and fallopian tube is extremely rare, particularly in postmenopausal women. A 70-year-old postmenopausal woman presented with a 2-year history of a left groin swelling that became painful and irreducible 12 h prior to admission. Preoperative ultrasonography suggested an incarcerated inguinal hernia containing bowel loops. Adnexal involvement was not suspected preoperatively, reflecting the diagnostic challenge. Emergency surgical exploration revealed a left femoral hernia containing a viable ovary and fallopian tube, representing an unexpected intraoperative finding. The adnexal structures were reduced, and the femoral defect was repaired using a tissue-based repair. The postoperative course was uneventful. Femoral hernias containing adnexal structures in postmenopausal women are exceptionally rare and often diagnosed intraoperatively. Awareness of this possibility, prompt surgical intervention, and careful intraoperative assessment are essential.