Hernias inguinales: generalidades de un motivo de consulta frecuente al servicio de emergencias

Abstract

Inguinal hernias are a common cause of groin pain and a reason to visit emergency service. Its repair is one of the most performed surgical procedures. They are classified according to their anatomical characteristic as indirect, direct or femoral. In addition, after the clinical history and physical examination, they can be classified according to the Nyhus scale. Its etiology is multifactorial. It is presented by alterations in genes and collagen fibers, smooth muscle, persistence of the processus vaginalis, genetic syndromes and environmental factors. The diagnosis is fundamentally clinical, although if it is not clear, the first line study is the US. If doubt persists, it is supported by CT or MRI images. When symptoms occur, its management is surgical, laparoscopy its the way of choice. A lower incidence of complications has been well documented under this method. However, the open Lichtenstein technique continues to be used in various centers. Ideally, an adequate doctor-patient relationship should be established in asymptomatic patients to clearly offer the risk/benefit in detail and reach together the better decision.