Hernias Flashcards
What is an inguinal hernia?
Protrusion of abdominal or pelvic contents through a dilated internal inguinal rind, through inguinal canal and external inguinal ring
How common are inguinal hernias and who are they seen in?
75% abdo hernias
95% male
What are the clinical features of an inguinal hernia?
Groin lump- above and medial to pubic tubercle
Disappears when lying or on pressure
More prominent when coughing/straining
Discomfort and ache, worse on activity
How is inguinal hernia diagnosed?
Clinically
Unclear= US
How is inguinal hernia managed in children?
<1 year= urgent surgery due to strangulation risk
>1 year= elective repair
How is a small asymptomatic inguinal hernia managed?
Watchful waiting
How is a large symptomatic inguinal hernia managed?
Open mesh or laparoscopic repair
How are recurrent inguinal hernias managed?
Laparoscopic mesh repair
How are strangulated inguinal hernias managed?
Urgent open repair
What are the risks in inguinal hernia?
Low risk of strangulation
Bowel obstruction
What is a femoral hernia?
Passage of abdominal contents through femoral canal
Who are femoral hernias seen in?
Multiparous females mainly
What are the clinical features of a femoral hernia?
Groin lump- below and lateral to pubic tubercle, reducible
Painless
Pain- think strangulation or bowel ostruction
How is femoral hernia diagnosed?
Clinically
What are the management and complications of femoral hernia?
Relatively urgent repair due to risk of strangulation/obstruction
