INGUINAL HERNIAS: A REVIEW OF EPIDEMIOLOGICAL, CLINICAL, DIAGNOSTIC, AND THERAPEUTIC ASPECTS

Abstract

Inguinal hernias represent a common surgical condition characterized by the protrusion of the intestine or other abdominal tissue through a weakness in the abdominal wall in the inguinal region. This condition predominantly affects men, with a lifetime prevalence of up to 27%, and can be classified as direct or indirect inguinal hernias. Diagnosis is generally clinical, assisted by ultrasonography or computed tomography in uncertain cases. The standard treatment is surgery, with options including open techniques, such as the Lichtenstein procedure, and laparoscopic techniques, such as TAPP and TEP. Both approaches are effective, with the choice of method depending on the individual characteristics of the patient and the surgeon's experience.