Groin and thigh fracture

An groin fracture (inguinal hernia) is a protrusion of the peritoneum through the inguinal canal, sometimes into the scrotum. A thigh fracture (femoral hernia) is located slightly lower, in the femoral canal, and is more common in women. Thigh fractures are always operated on because of the increased risk of entrapment.

Cause

Groin ruptures are the most common abdominal wall fractures. They can be congenital (especially in children) or occur later in life. Risk factors include premature birth, family history, connective tissue diseases, increased abdominal pressure and previous prostate surgery.

Symptoms

Typically, there is a painless swelling in the groin that increases with coughing or squeezing. Sometimes there is pain or a sensation of pressure. A constriction can cause severe pain and nausea, if this occurs immediate medical contact is necessary.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis is made primarily by physical examination. If in doubt, an ultrasound, CT scan or NMR scan (MRI) may be considered.

Treatment

The only definitive treatment is surgery. During this surgery, the fracture contents are replaced and the abdominal wall is reinforced with a mesh. In men without symptoms, surgery can be postponed; in women, children and with symptoms, surgery is recommended. The preferred method for this procedure is keyhole surgery (laparoscopy).

Keyhole surgery (laparoscopy)

After surgery to repair a groin or thigh fracture, the following complications may occur:

  • Hemorrhage: this disappears on its own.
  • Wound infection: must be treated locally.
  • Wound fluid (seroma): usually recovers spontaneously.
  • Chronic pain: chronic pain may occur in 10% of cases; treatment depends on severity.

Contact your surgeon in case of fever, severe pain or swelling, persistent vomiting, breathing problems or leaking wounds.

Admission and recovery

The procedure is usually done via day admission and under general anesthesia. In the first week after the procedure, you will go for a check-up with your doctor. You must not do any heavy lifting or sports for two weeks. You may take a shower but bathing is not allowed. 

After four to six weeks you will see your surgeon for a check-up.

Departments

Would you like to make an appointment? If so, please contact the department(s) listed below.

General and abdominal surgery

Want to know more about abdominal wall surgery?

For more information you can take a look at the website of the abdominal wall center Limburg.

Abdominal wall center Limburg