English

Abstract

Inguinal hernia is the most common hernia seen in females. Only independent risk factors for inguinal hernia in females are positive family history and obstipation. Here we present a case of 60yr old female with irreducible inguinal hernia. On examination an intra-vaginal foreign body was found which was causing patient to strain during micturition leading to chronic increase in intra-abdominal pressure. A herniorrhaphy was done and foreign body was removed intra- operatively. INTRODUCTION : Inguinal hernia in females is relatively uncommon as compared to males but inguinal hernia is the most common hernia in females. The incidence of inguinal hernia in females is <5%. Inguinal hernias are nine times more common in men than in women. (1) The incidence of indirect hernia relates to the congenital weakness at the internal abdominal ring. The sac is formed by the unobliterated portion of the prenatal peritoneal invagination of the canal of nuck that runs along and partly covers the round ligament. Virtually nothing is known about risk factors for inguinal hernia in females. High sports activity is protective in inguinal hernia. Smoking, appendicectomy, abdominal operations and multiple deliveries are not associated with inguinal hernia in females. (2) Inguinal hernia has been reported to be more prevalent in people with low socio-economic status. (3) Inguinal hernias have an approximate incidence of incarceration of 10% and a portion of these may become strangulated. (4) In a study, bowel resection rate in patients with obstructed or strangulated hernias was 15.9%. The need for bowel resection closely correlated with the time interval between the onset of acute symptoms and subsequent operation. (5) Immediate operation should be done in all patients who are ill with incarcerated or obstructed hernia, without attempting reduction.