Femoral Hernia Treatment in Dnipro

A femoral hernia is a pathological protrusion that occurs when abdominal organs pass through the femoral canal. This condition most commonly affects women over the age of 50. Key symptoms of a developing femoral hernia include pain and discomfort in the groin area, which may intensify with physical activity. When diagnosed with a femoral hernia, surgery is considered the most effective treatment method, as compression of organs in the femoral canal can lead to serious complications. According to statistics, femoral hernias account for 2–4% of all abdominal hernias. In the city of Dnipro, experienced specialists at the "Helyos" clinic provide femoral hernia treatment.

Types of Femoral Hernias

Femoral hernias are classified based on their location relative to the anatomical structures of the femoral canal. Specialists distinguish the following types:

Posterior femoral hernia (Hesselbach’s hernia): Forms due to the descent of abdominal organs through the posterior wall of the femoral canal.
Anterior femoral hernia (De Garengeot hernia): The hernia passes through the anterior wall beneath the inguinal ligament.
Direct femoral hernia: Protrudes vertically through the canal.
Retrovascular hernia: The hernia sac lies behind the vessels, complicating diagnosis.
Interstitial hernia: Passes through the fascia of the thigh and can extend into the subcutaneous fat layer.

In addition, doctors distinguish between unilateral and bilateral, reducible and irreducible, and complicated and uncomplicated femoral hernias.

Causes of Femoral Hernia

The primary cause of femoral hernia development is a decrease in muscle and ligament tone in the femoral triangle. Several factors can contribute to this condition:

Congenital connective tissue disorders, which result in muscle and tendon weakness
Excessive physical exertion that increases intra-abdominal pressure and stretches muscles and ligaments
Pregnancy, which raises intra-abdominal pressure and compresses surrounding structures
Obesity, which increases the load on the abdominal wall
Past trauma or surgeries in the thigh area
Chronic coughing or constipation, both of which raise intra-abdominal pressure over time

The likelihood of developing a femoral hernia increases with age due to natural tissue weakening and reduced muscle tone.

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Signs and Symptoms

Femoral hernia symptoms may be absent in early stages and typically develop gradually. Initial signs often appear once the hernia reaches a noticeable size. Common symptoms include:

Pain in the lower lateral abdomen radiating to the thigh, which worsens with physical activity or coughing
A noticeable lump or swelling in the upper front part of the thigh, especially when standing or straining
A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the groin area
Bowel disturbances such as constipation or bloating due to bowel compression in the hernia

In cases of complications (e.g., intestinal strangulation), general symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, elevated blood pressure, and signs of intoxication may appear.

Diagnosing Femoral Hernia

Diagnosing a femoral hernia is usually straightforward and often occurs during routine check-ups. Examination allows the doctor to determine the type, size, and potential complications of the hernia. Diagnosis typically begins with a consultation with a surgeon, who listens to the patient's complaints and then performs a visual and physical examination of the groin area. To confirm the diagnosis, the following tests may be recommended:

Ultrasound (US): Helps determine the type of hernia and presence of hernia contents
Irrigoscopy: A contrast substance is introduced into the abdominal cavity and X-rays are taken
CT or MRI scans for detailed visualization of complex or atypical hernias

How Femoral Hernias Are Treated

The most effective treatment for a femoral hernia is surgical intervention. During surgery, the abdominal organs are returned to their proper position, and the hernia defect is reinforced using a mesh implant. The following surgical methods may be used:

Laparoscopic hernioplasty: A minimally invasive procedure using microinstruments inserted into the abdominal cavity
Open hernioplasty: The surgeon makes a direct incision in the groin area and repairs the hernia

At the Helyos Center, surgeons specialize in laparoscopic femoral hernia repair, as this method is less traumatic, more precise, allows for faster recovery, and carries a lower risk of postoperative complications. Surgical treatment typically includes:

Anesthesia
2–3 small incisions on the abdominal wall for trocar insertion
Reduction of hernia contents
Hernia defect repair with a polypropylene mesh
Reinforcement of the femoral triangle ligaments (if necessary)
Suturing of incisions

The procedure usually lasts no longer than 1.5 hours, although more complex cases may require additional procedures. Conservative treatment, such as wearing a support belt, may be used as a temporary measure before surgery or if surgery is contraindicated.

Advantages of Femoral Hernia Treatment at Helyos Medical Center

The "Helyos" Medical Center is fully equipped with advanced medical technology to perform surgeries of any complexity. Our doctors—including top-category surgeons and medical science candidates—provide a personalized and comprehensive approach to every patient, ensuring precise diagnostics and optimal treatment strategies.

In Dnipro, the Helyos clinic employs highly experienced specialists who use the latest laparoscopic techniques, delivering the best possible outcomes for hernia treatment. Each patient room is equipped for comfortable pre- and postoperative care.

The cost of treatment depends on the complexity of the clinical case and the chosen surgical method.