How it differs from inguinal hernia
A femoral hernia allows fat or bowel through the femoral canal below the inguinal ligament. It may produce a small lump in the upper inner thigh or groin. The narrow opening differs from an inguinal hernia and can trap its contents. It is more common in women but occurs in any sex, sometimes presenting with obstruction before a noticeable lump.
Establishing the diagnosis
Examination checks position, tenderness and reducibility, distinguishing the lump from lymph nodes, vascular swellings and inguinal hernia. Ultrasound or CT may help when uncertain. Prior groin operations and symptoms on both sides should be reported. Other illnesses, medicines and functional fitness inform anaesthetic planning, but suspected strangulation can require urgent action before a full elective work-up.
Why timely repair is discussed
Because trapping and compromised bowel blood supply are important risks, repair is commonly considered even with limited symptoms. Watchful waiting used for selected inguinal hernias should not be automatically transferred to femoral hernias. Very high operative risk requires individual discussion and a clear emergency plan. Supports, medicines and exercise do not close the defect.
Repair and emergency circumstances
Repair may be open or minimally invasive. Contents are assessed and returned, then the defect is repaired, with mesh use depending on circumstances. Compromised bowel may need resection. Contamination and bowel surgery can alter the technique and recovery needs. Choice depends on urgency, previous operations and anaesthetic suitability; emergency strangulation surgery is not equivalent to a straightforward planned repair.
Risks and informed decisions
Risks include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, pain, numbness and recurrence. Nearby vessels and other structures can be injured. Urinary difficulty, clots and anaesthetic complications are possible. If bowel resection is needed, additional bowel-related risks apply. Individual risk differs between planned and emergency surgery, while the potential benefit includes preventing or treating trapping as well as reducing the lump.
Preparation and recovery
Preparation reviews medicines, allergies and other conditions, with individual fasting and medication instructions. Do not stop anticoagulants independently. Recovery supports wound care, pain relief and safe movement. Driving, lifting and work depend on symptoms and the operation. Additional bowel surgery requires nutritional and bowel-function monitoring. Persistent pain, new swelling or functional limitation should be reviewed.
Symptoms requiring immediate help
Sudden severe groin or upper-thigh pain with a firm irreducible swelling needs emergency assessment. Vomiting, abdominal distension, inability to pass stool or gas, fever or darkening skin increase urgency. Do not force the lump back. After surgery, report worsening abdominal pain, fever or persistent vomiting. Breathlessness, chest pain, fainting and heavy bleeding also require emergency help.
This information is general. The cause of symptoms, appropriate investigations and treatment options are determined through individual assessment.