Femoral Hernia Surgery in Brownsville, TX

Femoral hernias occur when organ tissue pushes through the muscle tissue of the femoral canal (the groin area where the leg connects to the lower torso.) Hernias in this area of the body are somewhat rare, accounting for about 1 in 20 hernias.

Dr. Carlos Barba provides state-of-the-art, minimally invasive treatment options for femoral hernias. With a general surgery center in Harlingen and Brownsville, TX, Dr. Barba is south Texas’ leader in hernia repair and general surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of a femoral hernia, please call (956) 621-4981 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation with Dr. Barba today.

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What Are the Symptoms of a Femoral Hernia?

Unless examined by a professional, it is often difficult to tell if a femoral hernia is present. Small to medium-sized hernias may not even show and typically do not cause any pain or discomfort. For larger hernias, bulging and pain may be present. The most common symptoms include:

• A bulge near the hip area
• Hip pain
• Discomfort near the hip when bending or lifting a heavy object

In extremely rare cases, femoral hernia strangulation may occur. Strangulation occurs when intestinal tissue becomes trapped in the muscle wall and blood supply is lost to that area. The following are symptoms of femoral hernia strangulation:

• Extreme pain in the abdomen
• Throbbing pain in the groin area
• Vomiting
• Dizziness

Seek medical attention immediately if strangulation symptoms are felt, as it could be potentially life-threatening.

What Are the Causes of a Femoral Hernia?

The main cause of the weakening of the femoral wall is from straining. Since childbirth tends to be the most common cause of overworking the muscles in this area, most femoral hernias occur in women. The following puts a person more at-risk:

• Frequent heavy lifting
• Being overweight
• Chronic and/or severe constipation

How is a Femoral Hernia Treated?

In most cases, surgery or treatment may not be necessary. If the issue is considered small, the doctor will often keep an eye on the hernia overtime to ensure symptoms don’t worsen. If the hernia is causing pain, discomfort, and affecting day-to-day life, surgical repair may be necessary.

During a repair of a femoral hernia, Dr. Barba will make an incision in the groin area near the hernia and put the protruding tissue back into place. Then the hole in the muscle tissue will be sewn back together and maybe reinforced with a mesh material.

The patient’s activity will be limited for the first two weeks following the surgery, but full activity can typically resume after about a month and a half.