Groin Hernias and Masses, and Abdominal Hernias

Summary

Evaluation of a suspected or definite groin mass and evaluation of groin pain can be a challenge to any primary physician. History and physical examination, while keeping the different etiologic possibilities in mind, frequently clarify the diagnosis. The most commonly performed general surgical procedure is groin hernia repair. General surgeons are referred for many patients with groin area pains of all types. Almost all patients with groin mass or groin pain are, sooner or later, referred to a surgeon. The sooner this is done, the better.

The transition in hernia surgery to widespread use of local anesthesia and rapid return to home and normal activities has been aided by shorter operating times and use of some type of inert, nonabsorbable mesh. Outcomes and patient satisfaction have improved. Types of hernia repairs and their pros and cons have been presented, along with discussion of definitions, differential diagnoses, and anatomic and special considerations. Abdominal wall hernias as well as congenital and diaphragmatic hernias have been briefly discussed.