A femoral hernia is caused when tissue pushes through a weak area in the muscle wall around the femoral canal, just below the groyne.
Causes
Straining due to chronic constipation Childbirth
Obesity
Heavy lifting
Child birth
Chronic coughing
An untreated femoral hernia can lead to serious complications like strangulation, cutting off blood supply to the trapped tissue.
The British Hernia Centre predicts that the bowel will only survive for 8 to 12 hours after strangulation, so seek prompt medical assistance if you experience symptoms.
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Avoid Prolonged Standing or Straining: Excessive pressure on the lower abdomen can weaken the femoral canal.
Support Pelvic Stability: Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming or walking to maintain muscle strength without overexertion.
Use Proper Posture: Sitting and standing with good alignment reduces unnecessary strain on the lower abdominal region.
Monitor for Groin Discomfort: Early recognition of pressure or mild pain can prevent complications.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: Even small femoral hernias have a higher risk of complications like strangulation, making early evaluation crucial.
Small Lump Near the Upper Thigh/Groin: Often more noticeable when standing or straining.
Mild Groin Discomfort: A pulling or aching sensation.
No Visible Bulge Initially: Due to the deep location, early detection can be challenging.
Noticeable Bulge in the Groin or Upper Thigh: Increases in size over time.
Pain or Tenderness: Worsens with movement, coughing, or lifting.
Bowel Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, or obstruction in severe cases.
Strangulation Signs: Intense pain, skin discoloration, and fever, requiring emergency care.
Open Surgical Repair: Direct repositioning with mesh reinforcement.
Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive approach for faster recovery.
Robotic-Assisted Repair: High precision with minimal tissue damage.
Emergency Surgery: Required for strangulated hernias to restore blood flow.
Limited Physical Activity: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous movements.
Pain Management: Medications help ease discomfort post-surgery.
Gradual Mobility: Walking is encouraged for circulation and healing.
Follow-Up Care: Ensures proper healing and reduces recurrence risk.
Long-Term Prevention: Maintain a healthy weight and strengthen core muscles.
Diagnosis often involves physical examination and imaging tests like an ultrasound.
Femoral hernias can develop in persons of any age, however they tend to be more common in specific age groups and communities due to various risk factors.
The precise side effects may depend on the type of surgical treatment performed. Although they are relatively uncommon, the majority of people pass surgery without any severe complications.
Surgery is the only effective treatment, with open or laparoscopic repair using mesh to prevent recurrence.
No, femoral hernias require surgical repair. Delaying treatment increases the risk of strangulation.
A lump near the upper thigh, discomfort, or pain worsened by activity. Diagnosis is confirmed via physical exam and imaging.
A femoral hernia occurs below the groin crease and carries a higher strangulation risk, while an inguinal hernia forms above the crease.
Light walking is safe, but strenuous activity should be avoided until after surgical repair.
Laparoscopic repair: 2–4 weeks.
Open surgery: 4–6 weeks.
Full activity should resume gradually with medical guidance.
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