Clinical Evaluation of Abdominal Wall Hernias

Abstract

Hernia is defined as protrusion of a viscus or part of a viscus through a weakening or defect in the wall of its containing cavity. Areas of potential anatomical weakness includes inguinal canal, femoral canal, linea alba, umbilical scar, as well as acquired surgical trauma. The weakening/defect may be acquired (like surgical scar) or congenital (like deep inguinal ring). Raised intraabdominal pressure is the most important factor that leads to the development of hernia through the weak areas. Clinically, the hernia usually presents with an abdominal swelling that progresses gradually over time. The sites of hernia are characteristic and usually points towards the diagnosis. While evaluating a hernia clinically, it is important to identify the content of the hernia sac and whether it suffers any complication, as well as the cause of the hernia development. Failing to identify these prior to surgery, will likely result in morbidity as well as recurrence. This chapter will focus on the clinical art of history taking and examination of different abdominal hernias.