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Femoral Hernia

What is a Femoral Hernia?

A femoral hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall near the femoral canal, a passageway located in the upper thigh just below the groin. Femoral hernias are less common than inguinal hernias but are more likely to occur in women, especially those who are pregnant or overweight. While small femoral hernias may not cause symptoms, larger hernias can lead to discomfort and potentially serious complications.

Symptoms of a Femoral Hernia

Symptoms of a femoral hernia can vary depending on the size and severity of the hernia. Common symptoms include:

Bulge in the Upper Thigh or Groin Area: A noticeable bulge, especially when standing, bending, or lifting.

Pain or Discomfort: Particularly when walking, bending, or during physical activity.

Pressure or Heaviness: A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the groin area.

Nausea or Vomiting: In severe cases, where the hernia becomes trapped or strangulated, nausea and vomiting can occur.

If you experience sudden pain, tenderness, or discoloration in the area of the bulge, it may be a sign of a strangulated hernia, which requires immediate medical attention.

Causes and Risk Factors​

Femoral hernias are caused by a combination of muscle weakness and increased pressure in the abdomen or pelvis. Contributing factors include:

Pregnancy: The increased pressure during pregnancy can weaken the abdominal and groin muscles.

Obesity: Excess weight adds pressure to the abdominal wall, increasing the risk of hernias.

Heavy Lifting or Straining: Repeated strain on the muscles from lifting heavy objects can contribute to hernia formation.

Chronic Coughing or Constipation: Persistent coughing or straining during bowel movements can also lead to a femoral hernia.

Diagnosing Anal Fissures​

Femoral hernias are typically diagnosed through a physical examination, during which a healthcare provider will look for a bulge in the groin or upper thigh area. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess the size and location of the hernia.

Treatments for a Femoral Hernia

At Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics, we offer several options for treating femoral hernias, with surgery being the most effective treatment to prevent complications:

Surgical Hernia Repair: Surgery is typically recommended for femoral hernias, as these hernias have a higher risk of becoming strangulated. Surgical repair involves repositioning the herniated tissue and reinforcing the weakened area with stitches or mesh to prevent recurrence. This can be done through:

Emergency Surgery: If the hernia becomes strangulated, emergency surgery is required to restore blood flow to the affected tissue and repair the hernia.

What Happens If Left Untreated?​

If left untreated, a femoral hernia can lead to serious complications, particularly strangulation, where the hernia cuts off blood flow to the trapped tissue. This can cause tissue death, leading to severe pain, infection, or bowel obstruction, all of which require emergency surgery. Untreated hernias can also continue to grow and cause increased discomfort or pain over time.

 

Schedule a Consultation

If you have noticed a lump or discomfort in your groin or thigh area, it may be a sign of a femoral hernia. Contact Texas Advanced Surgical & Bariatrics today to schedule a consultation. Our experienced team provides expert diagnosis and advanced surgical treatment options to repair femoral hernias and restore your comfort and health.

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  • Methodist Plaza
  • Schertz Clinic
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