Femoral Hernia
Femoral Hernia
Femoral hernias are less common than other groin hernias but are particularly important because they carry a higher risk of complications and often require prompt treatment.
What Is a Femoral Hernia?
A femoral hernia develops where the major blood vessels to and from the leg pass between the abdomen and the thigh.
It occurs just below the groin crease, on the inner side of these vessels. Because the space in this area is very tight, the hernia often tracks upwards and can be confused with an inguinal (groin) hernia.
Femoral hernias are most commonly seen in thin older women, although they can occur in anyone.
Why Femoral Hernias Matter
- Often small but very tight
- Frequently contain bowel
- Carry a higher risk of strangulation than other hernias
- Can become life-threatening if untreated
Because of this, femoral hernias should be assessed and treated promptly once diagnosed.
Urgent Assessment Is Important
Femoral hernias have a high risk of bowel strangulation. This means the blood supply to trapped bowel can be compromised, creating a surgical emergency.
For this reason, femoral hernias are generally repaired promptly rather than simply observed.
How Femoral Hernias Are Repaired
Repair can be performed using either:
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery
- Open repair through a small incision in the groin crease
The choice of technique depends on the individual case, but both approaches are effective when performed by an experienced hernia surgeon.
Specialist Hernia Care
At Brisbane Hernia Clinic, femoral hernias are assessed carefully to confirm the diagnosis and determine the safest and most effective surgical approach.
Prompt treatment can prevent serious complications and allow patients to return quickly to normal activities.
Book an Assessment
If you have a groin lump, discomfort, or have been told you may have a femoral hernia, early specialist assessment is recommended.
Call Dr WatsonCall A/Professor McGregor
