WHAT IS FEMORAL HERNIA?
Femoral Hernia, also known as Crural Hernia, Femorocele, is a type of hernia that bulges out of a weak spot in the groin region, just above the line that separates the abdomen from the legs. The abdomen contents (such as the intestine) along with peritoneum (lining of abdomen contents) can push through the weakened spot into the femoral canal.
WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR FEMORAL HERNIA?
An increase in intra-abdominal pressure is the main trigger factor for a Femoral Hernia. The following factors may increase the pressure or strain:
- Obesity
- Individuals with a chronic cough or chronic constipation are more susceptible to the condition
- Enlarged prostate (straining to go urine)
- Improper heavy lifting
- Elderly, low weight women have an increased risk than individuals of any other age group
- Rarely, a congenital anatomical weakening can increase the risk
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF FEMORAL HERNIA?
Having both, a weakened spot in the groin (femoral canal) and repeated or chronic strain (high intra-abdominal pressure) to the weakened area causes Femoral Hernia. The causal factors may include:
- An enlarged prostate can lead to straining during urination, which can ultimately contribute to a Femoral Hernia
- It is more common in women who get pregnant many times than those who get pregnant fewer times
- Intense physical activity/work-out or improper/frequent heavy lifting
- Chronic constipation
- It is more common in individuals who smoke than those who do not
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF FEMORAL HERNIA?
Most Femoral Hernias present no symptoms. They are often discovered when a part of the intestine is caught within the hernia, or if the blood supply to the tissues is cut-off due to the hernia being contorted or blocked.
- One of the most common signs of a Femoral Hernia is a bulge - about the size of a cherry, located in the groin region
- Pain in the upper part of the thigh
- An unexplained bowel obstruction may lead to the finding of a Femoral Hernia
- Immediate medical attention should be sought, if any of the following symptoms occur:
- If the hernia is painful, and if it cannot be pushed back into the abdomen with a gentle pressure
- If the hernia becomes dark, discoloured, or starts looking bruised
- If abdominal pain, nausea and/or vomiting occur due to the hernia
HOW IS FEMORAL HERNIA DIAGNOSED?
Femoral Hernias are primarily diagnosed through a physical examination of the groin area. An ultrasound, CT, or MRI scan may be used for further diagnosis.
HOW IS FEMORAL HERNIA TREATED?
Surgery is the only available method to completely eliminate a Femoral Hernia, as they typically do not subside, or go away by themselves.
An elective (planned) surgery is preferred to emergency surgery, due to the involvement of lesser complications. The surgical treatment options for Femoral Hernia may include:
- Open surgery, although less commonly done, may be performed by making a large incision in order to push the lump (hernia sac and its contents) back into the abdomen and repair the defect, either by approximating the tissues together or by using a mesh. A plastic mesh can be used during surgery to repair the weakness in the abdominal wall
- Laparoscopic surgery that is minimally-invasive is the preferred method depending on the clinical situation. Usually, three small incisions are made, and the surgeon uses microscopic instruments and surgical cameras to aid in the repair
WHY KIMS?
KIMS, the best hospital for gastroenterology in Hyderabad, offers state-of-the-art surgical repair for femoral hernias.
Whether your condition requires care from one specialist or an entire team, our Hernia Surgery doctors in Hyderabad work side by side to develop a personalized care plan to treat your condition, making us the go-to location for Hernia treatment in Hyderabad.