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Femoral Hernia

Diagnosis and surgical treatment of a hernia that passes through the femoral canal beneath the inguinal ligament.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Femoral Hernia?

A femoral hernia is the protrusion of intra-abdominal contents into the thigh through the femoral canal, beneath the inguinal ligament. It accounts for 3–5% of all hernias and is much less common than inguinal hernia, but its risk of strangulation is substantially higher (20–40%).

Because the female pelvis is wider, the femoral canal is larger in women, and femoral hernia is therefore more frequent in women than in men. The swelling may persist when lying down and the small size can cause the diagnosis to be missed.

As the femoral canal is narrow and rigid, any bowel loop entering it is easily incarcerated. For this reason, elective surgery is recommended as soon as a femoral hernia is diagnosed; once strangulation develops it becomes an emergency.

Symptoms

A small round swelling on the upper inner thigh, just below the inguinal ligament
The swelling may be small and difficult to notice
Mild groin pain or discomfort
Strangulation: sudden severe pain, nausea, vomiting and an irreducible firm swelling
Signs of bowel obstruction in advanced strangulation

Risk Factors

Female sex and advanced age
Pregnancy and multiparity
Weak abdominal-wall muscles
Chronic constipation and heavy work
Previous inguinal hernia repair

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Elective evaluation if a small swelling is felt below the inguinal ligament
  • Signs of strangulation (sudden pain, irreducible swelling): immediate presentation
  • Groin pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
  • If the swelling becomes hard and tender

Treatment Methods

01
Elective surgery is recommended at once (high risk of strangulation)
02
Infrainguinal (Lockwood) approach: closing the femoral ring with mesh
03
Suprainguinal (McEvedy) approach: for large or strangulated femoral hernias
04
Laparoscopic TAPP/TEP: repairs both femoral and concomitant inguinal hernias
05
Emergency laparotomy and bowel assessment in the case of strangulation
06
Resection and anastomosis or stoma formation when the bowel is necrotic

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.