Hernia, Inguinal
Hernia, Inguinal Causes
Some inguinal hernias have no obvious cause. But many happen as a result of increased pressure within the abdomen, a pre-existing weak spot in the abdominal wall or a combination of the two.
Hernia, Inguinal Definition
Inguinal hernias are protrusions of abdominal cavity contents through the inguinal canal.
Hernia, Inguinal Diagnosis
The diagnosis of inguinal hernia rests on the history provided by the patient and the physician's examination of the groin. Further tests are seldom needed to confirm the diagnosis. However, in unclear cases an ultrasound scan or a CT scan might be of help, particularly to rule out a hydrocele.
Hernia, Inguinal Symptoms and Signs
Inguinal hernia is asymptomatic, but some symptoms may arise, which includes: pain or discomfort in the groin, especially when bending over, coughing or lifting; a heavy or dragging sensation in the groin; or occasionally, in men, pain and swelling in the scrotum around the testicles when the protruding intestine descends into the scrotum.
Hernia, Inguinal Treatment
Surgical correction of inguinal hernias, called a herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty, is now usually performed as an ambulatory, or "day surgery," procedure. There are several surgical strategies which may be considered in the planning of inguinal hernia repair. These include the consideration of type of open repair, mesh use, use of laparoscopy, type of anesthesia, appropriateness of bilateral repair, etc. During surgery conducted under local anaesthesia, the patient will be asked to cough and strain during the procedure to help in demonstrating that the repair is free of tension and sound.