Medial inguinal fossa

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== Medial inguinal fossa ==

The medial inguinal fossa is an anatomical structure located within the inguinal region of the anterior abdominal wall. It is a depression found on the inner surface of the abdominal wall and is one of the three inguinal fossae, the other two being the lateral inguinal fossa and the supravesical fossa.

Anatomy

The medial inguinal fossa is situated between the medial umbilical fold and the lateral umbilical fold. It is an important landmark in the anatomy of the inguinal canal and is closely related to the formation of inguinal hernias. Specifically, it is the site where direct inguinal hernias occur. These hernias protrude through the abdominal wall at the medial inguinal fossa and are typically acquired rather than congenital.

Clinical Significance

The medial inguinal fossa is clinically significant due to its association with direct inguinal hernias. These hernias are more common in older adults and are often caused by a weakening of the abdominal muscles. The hernia sac in direct inguinal hernias passes through the medial inguinal fossa and can be distinguished from indirect inguinal hernias, which pass through the deep inguinal ring.

Related Structures

• Inguinal ligament
• Hesselbach's triangle
• Transversalis fascia
• Inferior epigastric vessels

See Also

• Inguinal hernia
• Abdominal wall
• Hernia
• Inguinal canal