Inguinal Hernia Surgery

Overview

An inguinal hernia is a hernia that develops in the area of the abdomen close to the groin area. The base of the abdomen houses the inguinal canal. An inguinal canal is a passageway located in the body's lower abdomen and groin region. It is a narrow, tubular structure that extends from the abdominal cavity to the external genitalia. An inguinal hernia occurs when intestinal or fatty tissues (adipose tissue) pierce through the inguinal canal and into the groin region.

What is an Inguinal Hernia?

An inguinal hernia is a medical condition that occurs when a portion of the intestine or other abdominal contents protrudes through a weak point or tear in the abdominal muscles, creating a bulge or lump in the groin or scrotum. It is one of the most common types of hernias and is more common in men than in women. In men, an inguinal hernia may result in a bulge in the scrotum or groin, while in women, it may cause a bulge in the labia majora. 

What Are The Symptoms Of A Inguinal Hernia?

The symptoms of an inguinal hernia can vary, and not everyone with an inguinal hernia will experience symptoms. However, the most common symptoms of an inguinal hernia include:

• A bulge or lump in the groin or scrotum: This is the most common symptom of an inguinal hernia. The bulge may be more noticeable when standing or straining and may disappear when lying down.
• Pain or discomfort: The bulge or lump may be painful or cause discomfort, particularly when lifting heavy objects, bending over, or coughing. The pain may be a dull ache or a sharp pain and may worsen over time.
• A feeling of weakness or pressure in the groin: Some people with an inguinal hernia may feel a sense of heaviness, weakness, or pressure in the groin area.
• Swelling or pain in the testicles: In men, an inguinal hernia can cause swelling or pain in the testicles or scrotum.
• Nausea or vomiting: In rare cases, an inguinal hernia can cause nausea, vomiting, or constipation, particularly if the hernia is causing a bowel obstruction.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

What Are The Main Causes Of Inguinal Hernia?

Inguinal hernia can occur for a variety of reasons, It is believed that one of the main causes is weakness in the muscles of the groin and abdominal region, and a hernia could develop over time as a result of additional pressure.

Here are some possible reasons that can cause an inguinal hernia.

• Premature birth: An inguinal hernia is more likely to occur in newborns who are born preterm.
• Overweight: Individuals who are overweight are at constant risk of developing inguinal hernia because of the increased pressure on the abdominal walls.
• Pregnancy: The uterus is housed in the inguinal canal in females. As the baby grows and your belly swells, uterine pressure increases and causes an inguinal hernia to occur.
• Chronic coughing: Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cystic fibrosis can cause chronic coughing, which can increase the risk of developing a hernia.
• Working pattern: Some jobs require long standing hours, and standing for prolonged periods of time at workplaces puts more strain on the abdominal walls, which can make an inguinal hernia worse.

Undescended testicles: In some conditions, one or both of a baby's testicles (commonly known as "testes") may not have descended into the correct position during the developmental process. This disorder, also known as cryptorchidism, is rather common and is one of the possible causes of inguinal hernia in men or boys.

Types Of Inguinal Hernia

An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak point in the abdominal muscles. There are two main types of inguinal hernia:

• Direct inguinal hernia: This type of hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine pushes through a weak point in the abdominal muscles, which is located in the inguinal canal. The inguinal canal is a passageway that runs from the abdominal wall to the groin.
• Indirect inguinal hernia: This type of hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine or other abdominal tissue pushes through the inguinal canal, but does not follow the natural path of descent that occurs during fetal development. Instead, it enters the inguinal canal through an opening that was not fully closed during fetal development.

How Is An Inguinal Hernia Diagnosed?

Medical history: The doctor will record your medical history, which will include your symptoms, other ailments, and current medications and supplements, if any.

Physical Examination: Your doctor will perform a thorough physical examination to look for the physical signs of a hernia.

Imaging Tests: You will be prescribed imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis, which may include:

• Abdominal Ultrasound: It uses high-frequency sound waves to view structures in the abdomen.
• Abdominal CT Scan: Here multiple X-ray images of the abdomen are taken from different angles, and the computer then creates cross-sectional images of the body.
• Abdominal MRI Scan: An abdominal MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a medical imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed images of the internal structures of the abdomen

What Are the Treatment Options for Inguinal Hernia?

The treatment options for an inguinal hernia include:

Watchful waiting: If the hernia is small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring it regularly without any treatment. However, it is important to keep an eye on the hernia and report any changes or symptoms to your doctor.

Surgery: Surgery is the most effective treatment for inguinal hernias. The most common type of surgery is called herniorrhaphy, which involves making an incision in the groin and pushing the protruding tissue back into the abdomen, and strengthening the weakened muscle with stitches or a mesh patch. Another type of surgery is laparoscopic hernia repair, which involves making small incisions and using a camera and surgical tools to repair the hernia.

What Are The Complications And Risks Associated With An Inguinal Hernia?

The complications and risks associated with the Inguinal hernia are -

• Incarceration: A hernia can become trapped, meaning it is stuck in the weakened area of the abdominal wall and cannot be pushed back in. This can lead to pain, nausea, vomiting, and potentially life-threatening complications if blood flow to the trapped tissue is compromised.
• Strangulation: If a hernia becomes incarcerated and blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off, it can become strangulated. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate surgical intervention to prevent tissue death.
• Small bowel obstruction: Sometimes a blockage may happen from a herniated portion of a  small intestine that gets trapped and pinched. As a result, it can make it difficult for an individual to pass gas or stool, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Expansion through time: The existing hernia puts pressure on the tissues which are already weak. With the span of time enlarged testicular hernia starts to descend into the scrotum part which causes severe pain. 

How Do You Prevent Inguinal Hernia?

The congenital flaw predisposing you to an inguinal hernia cannot be prevented. However, you can lower the risk of developing an inguinal hernia in the following ways:

• Maintaining a healthy weight: See your doctor for advice on the best diet and exercise program for you and maintain a proper diet with the addition of supplements in your diet.
• Having a fiber-rich diet: Fiber found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can aid in preventing constipation and straining, which will eventually prevent you from developing an Inguinal hernia.
• Avoid heavy lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects or lifting things slowly. 
• Quitting Smoking: In addition to contributing to a number of dangerous ailments, smoking frequently results in a chronic cough that can induce an inguinal hernia.

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