Inguinal hernia is a condition characterized by the protrusion of a portion of soft tissue through a weak area of the muscles of the abdominal wall in the groin region. This can be seen or felt in most cases. Next, Dr. Jorge Vera, general surgeon at Clinica Ricardo Palma, gives us more information on the subject.

Symptoms

The characteristic symptom of this hernia is the sensation of a lump in the inguinal region that occurs or increases with effort when pushing, coughing or lifting weight. Also, it is associated with a feeling of discomfort that can become painful, although sometimes people do not manifest any type of pain.

Causes

The presence of this type of hernia is due to the pre-existence of weak points in the abdominal wall of the inguinal region. The triggering factor is the effort: lifting weight, cough, constipation. In addition, it is also associated with overweight.

Treatment

The main treatment is surgical, since the laparoscopic hernioplasty technique is performed, which allows the posterior abdominal wall to be directly approached and a larger mesh to be placed without damaging it. This technique is currently the most suitable for curing inguinal hernias.

Types of inguinal hernia

• Reducible
  A hernia that can be returned, spontaneously or manually, to its normal body cavity
   
• Incarcerated
  That it cannot be returned to its normal body cavity; it can strangulate or cause a bowel obstruction, but does not necessarily do so
   
• Strangled
  A hernia in which the blood supply to its contents is compromised
   
• Richter´s
  Only a portion of the circumference of the intestine, usually the antimesenteric border of the intestine, is herniated

Our specialist recommends the consumption of a balanced diet, in addition to doing frequent exercises and avoiding sudden weights. On the other hand, it is important to go to consultation in the presence of a protruding soft tissue or lump.

Dr. Jorge Vera
General surgeon at Clinica Ricardo Palma