Hernia

Femoral hernias are less common and occur more frequently in women.  It can be difficult to tell between an inguinal and femoral hernia. They are usually smaller and extend toward the upper thigh. Because the defect through which the hernia has to pass is tight, there is a higher chance of organs being stuck. Therefore, early surgery is suggested.

Treatment

Like inguinal hernias, femoral hernias can be treated by laparoscopic or open hernia repair. For laparoscopic repair, it is performed through three small incisions measuring 5mm to 1 cm in size. The operation involves locating the hernia and placing a mesh that helps to repair the defect that is causing the hernia. The operation has to be performed under general anaesthesia.

In open repair, an incision approximately 2 to 3 cm long is made in the groin. The hernia is identified and its contents are pushed back into the abdomen. A mesh is also placed to repair the defect that is causing the hernia. The operation can be performed under general or local anaesthesia.