Abdominal hernia

Last revised by Arlene Campos on 20 Feb 2024

Abdominal hernias/herniae may be congenital or acquired and come with varying eponyms. They are distinguished primarily based on type, location and content. 

75-80% of all hernias are inguinal ref.

Content of the hernia is variable, and may include:

  1. external herniation

    • ventral: anterior and lateral abdominal hernias

    • dorsal

    • groin: most common

  2. diaphragmatic herniation

  3. internal herniation

Complications predominantly relate to bowel incarceration, strangulation, and intestinal obstruction. Large diaphragmatic hernias in infancy may be complicated by pulmonary hypoplasia.

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