Femoral Hernia - Thigh hernia - Groin hernias

A femoral hernia is a type of hernia that occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall into the femoral canal, a narrow passage near the groin.

 

Femoral hernias are less common than inguinal hernias but can cause discomfort, pain, and complications if left untreated.

 

Causes and Risk Factors of Femoral Hernia

The primary cause of a femoral hernia is a weakening or stretching of the muscles and connective tissues in the groin area, allowing abdominal contents to protrude into the femoral canal. Several factors may contribute to this weakening, including:

  1. Congenital Weakness: Some individuals may have a congenital weakness or defect in the abdominal wall that predisposes them to develop femoral hernias from birth.
  2. Gender: Femoral hernias are more common in women than in men, possibly due to differences in pelvic anatomy and the structure of the femoral canal.
  3. Age: Older adults, particularly those over the age of 50, are at higher risk of developing femoral hernias due to age-related changes in the abdominal wall and decreased tissue elasticity.
  4. Pregnancy: Pregnancy can increase pressure within the abdomen and weaken the abdominal muscles, making women more susceptible to developing femoral hernias.
  5. Chronic Constipation or Straining: Persistent constipation or straining during bowel movements can strain the abdominal muscles and increase the risk of hernia formation.

 

Symptoms of Femoral Hernia

The symptoms of a femoral hernia can vary depending on the size and location of the hernia and whether any complications are present. Common symptoms may include:

  1. Visible Lump or Bulge: The most prominent symptom of a femoral hernia is a visible bulge or lump in the groin or upper thigh area, which may become more noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining.
  2. Discomfort or Pain: Discomfort or aching sensation in the groin or upper thigh area, especially when lifting heavy objects, coughing, or bending over.
  3. Nausea and Vomiting: In some cases, femoral hernias may cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or indigestion, particularly if the hernia compresses nearby organs or disrupts digestive function.

 

Diagnosis of Femoral Hernia

Diagnosing a femoral hernia typically involves a physical examination and may include additional imaging tests. Common diagnostic methods may include:

  1. Physical Examination: A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination to feel for a lump or bulge in the groin or upper thigh area and assess its size, location, and reducibility (whether it can be pushed back into the abdomen). It is usually not possible to reduce a femoral hernia due to anatomical constraints.
  2. Ultrasound: An ultrasound scan may be used to visualize the hernia and surrounding structures to confirm the diagnosis and assess for any complications.
  3. CT: This is infrequently used if the diagnosis is in doubt.

 

Treatment of Femoral Hernia

Treatment for a femoral hernia depends on the size, location, and severity of the hernia, as well as the presence of symptoms or complications. Treatment options may include:

  1. Watchful Waiting: Unless there are prohibitive medical problems, patients with femoral hernias are recommended to have surgery to avoid a high risk of complications.
  2. Laparoscopic Surgery: In some cases, minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery may be performed, involving small incisions and the use of a camera and specialized instruments to repair the hernia.
  3. Robotic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery using small (8mm) incisions and attached to robotic instruments (controlled by the surgeon) can be appropriate in some patients with femoral hernia. Most patients are served well by either the laparoscopic or open approach.
  4. Open Surgery: Traditional open surgery may be the best option for most femoral hernias. This involves an incision in the groin area to access and repair the hernia and can usually be done without using mesh.
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