Conditions and diseases

Inguinal hernia

Symptoms and causes

Symptoms and causes

What is it?

An inguinal hernia or hernia inguinalis is the protrusion of the peritoneum through the inguinal canal. At that site, the spermatic cord (in men) or the round ligament of the uterus (in women) runs through the abdominal muscles.

Inguinal herniae are much more frequent in men than in women. Patients discover a palpable or visible swelling in their groin. At an early stage, this is often painless.

Diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis and treatment

Should every inguinal hernia be treated?

Many inguinal herniae cause little or no symptoms during the initial stage. Often, we wait and see if, and how, the inguinal hernia develops. A watchful waiting approach is not dangerous.Occasionally, urgent repair of an

inguinal herniae
is necessary, for example, when there is a sudden, painful swelling that cannot be pushed back. After all, this so-called ‘strangulated inguinal hernia' may contain intestinal structures that can die off due to the strangulation. In this case, go to the A&E immediately. If the inguinal hernia cannot be pushed back there either, urgent surgery will be required. A ‘strangulated inguinal hernia’ is rather rare.

Treatment

Treatment centres and specialisations

Treatment centres and specialisations

Latest publication date: 02/08/2024
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip

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Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip