Difference Between Direct and Indirect Inguinal Hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ pushes itself out from weak spots around the surrounding muscle or tissue. Of the four major types of hernias you can develop, an inguinal hernia is the most common type in men.
An inguinal hernia is further divided into Direct Inguinal Hernia and Indirect Inguinal Hernia. This classification is based on when and how it was formed. We will discuss these two major types of inguinal hernia in detail.
How Do We Understand The Difference Between Direct And Indirect Inguinal Hernia?
A direct and an indirect inguinal hernia is identified by how and when the hernia is formed. An indirect inguinal hernia is the most common type that usually happens in premature births, whereas a direct inguinal hernia occurs mainly in adults and increases with age.
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), men are more prone to this type of hernia. Both types of inguinal hernias cause a lump on either side of the pubis. Here are the few significant differences between a direct and an indirect inguinal hernia-
A direct inguinal hernia shows a bulge from the posterior wall of the inguinal canal, whereas an indirect inguinal hernia passes through the inguinal canal or the groin.
It is difficult to feel the defect in the indirect inguinal canal as it occurs behind the external oblique muscle fibres. The defect can easily be felt in a direct inguinal canal in the abdominal wall.
A direct inguinal canal cannot reach the scrotum, whereas the other can quickly go down.
An indirect inguinal hernia can develop in infancy when an abdomen area called the inguinal ring fails to close. A direct hernia occurs in adulthood when the abdominal muscle wall weakens with age.
Below, we summarise the difference between direct and indirect inguinal hernia.
Indirect Inguinal Hernia
Direct Inguinal Hernia
It passes through the inguinal canal.
It bulges from the posterior wall of the inguinal canal.
Descends into the scrotum
Don’t descend into the scrotum area
This defect is not palpable as it lies behind the fibres of the external oblique muscles of the abdomen.
The defect is palpable here as it lies in the abdominal wall above the pubic tubercle.
Commonly seen in children and young adults
It mainly occurs in old age
How To Repair An Inguinal Hernia?
The best way to get rid of an inguinal hernia is to opt for surgery. If the lump remains small for an extended period and does not increase or cause any symptoms, you can keep it as it is. But if it increases with time, you must consult a Hernia Surgeon immediately. If needed, the doctor may give you a referral to a surgeon.
Both direct and indirect hernias are treated in the same way. The choice is an open inguinal hernia repair or a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) inguinal hernia repair.
Other Causes Of An Abdominal Lump
An abdominal lump is a bulge or swelling protruding from an abdomen area. It is soft at the beginning, but it can get hard depending on the cause of the swelling. Along with the abdominal lump, you must visit emergency care immediately if you feel feverish or if the lump pains.
Forming a hernia is not always necessary whenever you develop a bulge in your abdominal area. There are also a few common causes of this lump.
Lipoma
Hematoma (accumulation of blood clots)
Tumor
Undescended testicle
Exercises You Should Do When You Develop A Hernia
Exercise is good for health as it keeps you physically fit. It helps you lose weight and strengthen the muscles around the area where you may develop a hernia. However, some exercises, like heavy lifting, squats, and so on, can strain your abdomen.
It would be best to avoid these as they may aggravate the hernia. Even improper exercises can increase the bulge. If you develop a hernia, consulting a physical therapist or a doctor can help you adequately perform the right exercises.
Conclusion
It may be challenging to differentiate between a direct and an indirect inguinal hernia. Therefore, it’s better to consult a doctor and identify the type of hernia. Hernias are very common in men and may also reoccur after treatment. But you must follow the doctor’s instructions and take all precautions to avoid developing a hernia.
For more information on direct and indirect inguinal hernia, connect with our team of experts today!
FAQs
What is an inguinal hernia? An inguinal hernia occurs when an organ pushes through weak spots in the abdominal muscles, causing a visible bulge in the groin area.
What is the difference between direct and indirect inguinal hernia? Direct inguinal hernias bulge from the posterior wall of the inguinal canal, while indirect ones pass through the canal and may descend into the scrotum.
What are the causes of an inguinal hernia? Inguinal hernias can result from muscle weakness, increased abdominal pressure, ageing, or a failure of the inguinal rings to close in infancy.
How is an inguinal hernia treated? Inguinal hernias are typically treated with surgery. You may choose between open hernia repair or laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgery.
Can a hernia reoccur after surgery? Yes, hernias can sometimes reoccur even after surgery. Following your doctor’s advice and taking precautions can help prevent this.
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