Groin hernia
Inguinal hernia
What is an inguinal hernia?
Inguinal hernias generally are the most frequently found hernias, and are discovered in males and females alike. Inguinal hernias occur when part of the intestine or abdominal tissue protrudes through the weak abdominal wall in the groin area. This weak point is often the same as the pathway where the testicles (or ovaries) go down during development. An inguinal hernia can’t just get better on its own and normally has to go through a surgical operation
Different types of inguinal hernias
There are two primary types of inguinal hernias: direct and indirect. Patients may even present with both types simultaneously. Understanding the distinction between these types helps in diagnosis, although the surgical repair process remains largely the same for both.
Indirect Inguinal Hernias
Indirect hernias are the most common type. They occur when the sac of the internal lining of the abdominal cavity fails to “dissolve” properly during development. This failure leaves the hole in the abdominal wall open, creating a weak point that gradually deteriorates over time. As the abdominal pressure increases—from activities such as lifting, coughing, or straining—a portion of abdominal tissue may push through this weakness, forming a hernia.
Direct Inguinal Hernias
Direct hernias, on the other hand, are more commonly seen in men who engage in heavy straining, often due to manual labor or rigorous physical activity. This type of hernia typically occurs in older men who have performed years of physical work, such as bricklayers, tilers, and boiler makers. Younger men who lift heavy weights at work or the gym are also at risk. Direct hernias develop when the abdominal wall weakens in a specific area due to repeated stress and strain.
Inguinal hernia symptoms
Inguinal hernias often present with a noticeable bulge or swelling in the groin area. This bulge becomes more pronounced when standing, coughing, or straining. Other symptoms include:
Discomfort or Pain: A sensation of heaviness, discomfort, or dragging in the groin, especially during physical activity or prolonged standing.
Intermittent Symptoms: In some cases, the symptoms are subtle, with only occasional pain and no visible bulge. This can make diagnosis challenging without a thorough medical examination.
While the symptoms may vary in intensity, the condition typically worsens over time. Early medical consultation is essential to prevent complications such as incarceration or strangulation of the hernia.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of an inguinal hernia typically requires both a medical history and a physical examination. The bulge in the groin area is often the first clue, but in the rare instances when such symptoms are not so evident, imaging tests like ultrasound or CT scanning might be necessary.
Treatment Options
Sadly, inguinal hernias do not heal on their own. While some general steps, such as avoiding weight-lifting and employing supportive garments, can reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, surgery is the definitive treatment.
Surgical Interventions
The surgical repair of inguinal hernias can be performed using two primary methods:
Open Surgery: This is the traditional method and is performed by making an incision in the groin area to reach and fix the hernia. Although it is effective, it typically requires a longer recovery time than the laparoscopic approach.
Minimally Invasive (Keyhole) Surgery: This is laparoscopic surgery which is performed with small incisions where a camera and the surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon does a careful repair of the hernia and the patient often goes home the same day. The advantages of this method are quicker recovery time, less postoperative pain, and an earlier return to normal activity.
Dr. Goutham specialises in tailoring the surgical approach to the individual needs of each patient. A comprehensive assessment ensures that the chosen method is safe and effective.
Recovery
Most inguinal hernia surgeries are performed as day procedures, allowing patients to return home the same day. Recovery is generally quick, with many patients resuming light activities within a week and full activities within a few weeks.
Patients are advised to:
Avoid heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks post-surgery.
Gradually increase physical activity under medical guidance.
Attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing.
Key takeaways
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, affecting both men and women.
There are two types: direct and indirect. While the underlying causes differ, the repair process is largely similar.
Symptoms range from a visible bulge to subtle, intermittent pain, requiring careful diagnosis.
Surgery is the only effective treatment option, with minimally invasive techniques offering faster recovery.
Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for preventing complications and ensuring optimal outcomes.
If you suspect you have an inguinal hernia or have been diagnosed and wish to explore your treatment options, contact Dr. Goutham for expert care and guidance.
Femoral hernia
Why do femoral hernias occur?
Femoral hernias are caused by a weakness in the abdominal wall in the area where the femoral canal is located. This canal is a natural passage for blood vessels and nerves that travel to and from the legs. Factors contributing to the development of a femoral hernia include:
Elderly Age and Gender: Females with a thinner physique have a greater chance of being the vulnerable population, especially during old age.
Heightened Abdominal Pressure: Long-standing cough, heavy lifting, or straining during bowel movements are the things that cause worsening of this condition.
Anatomical Anomalies: Individuals are born with a natural configuration of a femoral canal that predisposes them to develop this type of hernia
What are the symptoms of femoral hernia?
Femoral hernias are difficult to locate due to their being small and in an unusual place. The common symptoms usually observed when they occur are:
- A Small Bulge: This is usually located near the groin crease or upper thigh.
- Discomfort or Pain: Symptoms include tenderness or aching in the groin area, particularly when standing, coughing, or lifting.
- Digestive Issues: A femoral hernia in severe cases may result in nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain because the bowel gets involved.
If you see any of these signs, it is important you seek medical help from a specialist such as Dr. Goutham. Early diagnosis is crucial, as it can help prevent complications and lead to better treatment results.
Why is it important to get quick treatment?
Femoral hernias are emergency conditions characterised by a high rate of complications. The narrow space in the femoral canal is usually the reason for the hernia to get tightly pressed. This, in turn, raises the risk of:
- Strangulation: A section of the small intestine can become entrapped in the hernia, which cuts off blood flow to that section. This is an emergency condition that requires immediate surgery.
- Bowel Obstruction: A strangulated hernia can also cause intestinal obstruction, which would manifest as severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and more.
Because of these risks, Dr. Goutham strongly recommends that femoral hernias be addressed as soon as they are diagnosed.
Treatment options for femoral hernias
Dr. Goutham offers advanced surgical techniques to repair femoral hernias safely and effectively. Treatment options include:
1. Minimally invasive (Laparoscopic) Surgery
This minimally invasive technique involves making small incisions through which a camera and specialized instruments are inserted. Keyhole surgery offers several benefits:
Reduced postoperative pain.
Faster recovery time.
Minimal scarring.
2. Open Surgery
For some patients, a traditional open repair may be the preferred option. This involves a small incision, typically 2-3 cm, made in the groin crease. Through this incision, the hernia is carefully repaired. Open surgery is a straightforward and highly effective option, particularly for patients who may not be candidates for laparoscopic surgery.
Dr. Goutham will evaluate your condition thoroughly to recommend the best approach, with treatment available closest to your own home with locations available across Brisbane, Redlands and Sunshine Coast.
