Located in the groin, between the lower abdomen and thigh, an inguinal hernia is a protrusion of the groin wall. There is a weakening of the lower abdominal muscles that leads to inguinal hernias.
The intestines are shielded by three layers in the lower abdomen. The peritoneum, a thin , is the first. Second is your abdominal muscles, and third is the outer layer of skin.
It is possible to have an inguinal hernia if your abdomen bulges through the muscles and peritoneum. Hernias in the inguinal region can be life-threatening due to the fact that the intestine can become encased in the bulge and become deprived of oxygen. An inguinal hernia called a strangulated inguinal hernia may necessitate surgery.
Treatment
Inguinal hernias are almost often repaired surgically. Small hernias in adults that do not cause symptoms may merely require observation in adults. To avoid a strangulated hernia in the future, adults with symptoms and most youngsters typically have surgery. Surgery may be required to free a hernia that has become entrapped or strangulated.
Inguinal hernia surgery can be divided into two primary categories:
- Open repair: During the procedure, a groin incision is made in the skin. The hernia is moved back within the abdomen by the surgeon, who then sutures up the abdominal wall. Mesh can be used to strengthen the closure when the aperture is big, but it is not always necessary.
- Laparoscopy: Small incisions and a thin scope with a camera are used in this procedure. The hernia is repaired by the surgeon using a scope. The use of synthetic mesh in laparoscopic hernia surgery is another option as well. Laparoscopy may require less recovery time than open surgery.