Statistics

Inguinal hernias are the commonest abdominal wall hernias, accounting for 75% of cases. They are more common in men because of the weakness in the abdominal wall caused by the movement of the testicle from inside the abdomen in the fetus (before birth) to the scrotum. The testicle takes a covering of peritoneum (inside lining of the abdomen) with it - this normally closes completely. If it persists a hernia may present in babies/children.

About 16% of men will develop an inguinal hernia. These are usually associated with increased abdominal pressure - heavy jobs, vigorous sports, coughing, constipation, difficulty with passing urine etc.

About 30% of patients who have had one side repaired will need to have the other side done at some point.

Mr. H.S. Khaira  MD, FRCS
Copyright © 2001  [H.S. Khaira]. All rights reserved.
Revised: October 24, 2004 .