An inguinal hernia will affect nearly 25% of men and less than 2% of women over their lifetime. Femoral hernias account for only 3% of all inguinal hernias and are more commonly seen in women with females accounting for about 70% of all femoral hernias. Males account for about 90% of all inguinal hernias and females about 10%. Two-thirds of these hernias are indirect, making an indirect hernia the most common groin hernia in both males and females. The incidence of inguinal hernias has a bimodal distribution, with peaks around age 5 and after age 70. Inguinal hernias account for 75% of all abdominal wall hernias. It is estimated that about 800,000 inguinal hernias are performed annually. Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgery in the United States. Also, it is believed that increased intra-abdominal pressure, as seen in obesity, chronic cough, heavy lifting, and straining due to constipation, also plays a role in the development of an inguinal hernia. Studies have also shown that certain diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome contribute to increased incidence of an inguinal hernia. Patients with a known family history of a hernia are at least 4 times more likely to have an inguinal hernia than patients with no known family history. However, there is evidence to suggest genetics also play a role. Most adult hernias are considered acquired. Inguinal hernias are considered to have both a congenital and acquired component. When the mesh is contraindicated, primary suture repair can be performed. A mesh is usually used for a tension-free repair. An open or laparoscopic approach can be used with the goal of defect closure and a tension-free repair. Healthcare professionals recommend repairing all symptomatic hernias to avoid complications. Most patients present with a bulge or pain in the groin. These groin hernias can be divided into indirect, direct, and femoral based on location. An inguinal hernia is an opening in the myofascial plain of the oblique and transversalis muscles that can allow for herniation of intraabdominal or extraperitoneal organs. More than 800,000 repairs performed annually. Inguinal hernia repair is an extremely common operation performed by surgeons.
This activity reviews the pathophysiology of inguinal hernia and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in its management. Healthcare professionals recommend repairing all symptomatic hernias to avoid complications.