Femoral hernia repair

Femoral hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed to correct a femoral hernia, a type of hernia that occurs when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the femoral canal. This type of hernia is more common in women than in men due to the wider shape of the female pelvis.

Anatomy

The femoral canal is a space located in the front of the hip. It contains the femoral vein, artery, and nerve, which supply blood and sensation to the lower leg. A femoral hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the femoral canal.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a femoral hernia can include a lump in the groin or inner thigh, discomfort or pain in the area, and sometimes more severe symptoms if the hernia becomes strangulated, such as nausea, vomiting, and severe abdominal pain.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a femoral hernia is typically made through a physical examination and imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. These tests can help to confirm the presence of a hernia and determine its size and location.

Treatment

The primary treatment for a femoral hernia is surgical repair. This can be done through open surgery or laparoscopic surgery. In open surgery, a large incision is made in the abdomen or groin, the hernia is pushed back into place, and the weak spot in the femoral canal is repaired with stitches or a mesh patch. In laparoscopic surgery, several small incisions are made and a camera and surgical instruments are inserted to perform the repair.

Prognosis

The prognosis for femoral hernia repair is generally good, with most people making a full recovery. However, as with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, bleeding, and damage to nearby organs. There is also a risk of the hernia recurring.

See also

• Hernia
• Inguinal hernia
• Umbilical hernia
• Incisional hernia