Description Occurs when tissue ...
Description
Occurs when tissue pushes through a weak spot in the groin muscle. This causes a bulge in the groin or scrotum. The bulge may hurt or burn. The hernia may get larger with straining. If the bulge does not go away with relaxation it can become lodged in the defect (an incarcerated hernia). Intestine can become trapped in the hernia and lose its blood supply leading to a serious surgical emergency named strangulation.
Symptoms
Groin discomfort, groin pain aggravated by bending or lifting, a groin lump or scrotum lump that increases with straining or cough, a non-tender bulge or lump in children.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis can often be established by physical examination alone; an abdominal ultrasound or abdominal CT scan can confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan, Ultrasound
Specialists:
General Surgery, Pediatric Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis can often be established by physical examination alone; an abdominal ultrasound or abdominal CT scan can confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan, Ultrasound
Specialists:
General Surgery, Pediatric Surgery
Treatment
Most hernias can be pushed back into the abdominal cavity and many do not require treatment. If it cannot be pushed back through the abdominal wall the hernia may need to be emergently repaired to prevent the intestine from losing its blood supply and dying (strangulation). Strangulation can lead to peritonitis and this complication can be life threatening. Inguinal hernias often require surgery; however, some can be followed closely without surgery.