CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS AND SURGICAL COMPLICATIONS OF INCARCERATED FEMORAL HERNIA

Abstract

Introduction: Femoral hernia, although less common than other types of hernias, presents a significant risk of serious complications, such as incarceration. It occurs when a portion of the abdominal contents, often the intestine, protrudes through the femoral canal, a narrow space located below the inguinal ligament. Given its location and the rigidity of the adjacent structures, femoral hernias have a greater tendency to become trapped, preventing the hernial contents from returning to the abdominal cavity. This condition, known as incarcerated femoral hernia, can lead to intestinal obstruction, ischemia and, in more severe cases, necrosis of the herniated tissue. Objective: To analyze the clinical manifestations and surgical complications associated with incarcerated femoral hernia, with the aim of improving the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Methodology: A systematic review of the literature was performed, following the guidelines of the PRISMA checklist. The search included articles published in the last 10 years in the PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases, using the descriptors "femoral hernia", "incarceration", "surgical complications", "clinical manifestations" and "treatment". Observational studies, clinical trials and systematic reviews that addressed the topic of incarcerated femoral hernia were included. Exclusion criteria were opinion articles, isolated case reports and studies that did not fit the proposed theme. Results: Incarcerated femoral hernia manifests clinically by intense pain in the groin region, accompanied by a palpable mass and signs of intestinal obstruction, such as nausea, vomiting and abdominal distension. The diagnosis is confirmed by physical examination and, in some cases, imaging tests, such as ultrasound or computed tomography. The treatment of choice is emergency surgery, which aims to release the incarcerated content and repair the defect in the abdominal wall. Surgical complications may include wound infection, bleeding, injury to adjacent structures, and hernia recurrence. Conclusion: Incarcerated femoral hernia is a serious condition that requires early diagnosis and treatment. Knowledge of the clinical manifestations and possible surgical complications is essential for the appropriate management of this condition, aiming to reduce associated morbidity and mortality.