From inguinal to giant femoral hernia: An unusual postoperative twist - A rare case report

Introduction and importance: Femoral hernias following inguinal hernia repairs are an unusual occurrence that presents diagnostic challenges for healthcare providers. Surgical repair of inguinal hernias is generally successful, but complications and recurrence can arise. The coexistence of femoral hernias following inguinal hernia repairs is rare, requiring careful evaluation and management. Case presentation: A middle-aged patient sought medical attention with complaints of recurrent groin pain and a palpable bulge in the inguinal region. Initial imaging studies, including ultrasonography and contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT), pointed towards an inguinal hernia, leading to the scheduling of surgical repair. However, during the operation, the surgeon discovered a femoral hernia, highlighting the limitations of imaging techniques in accurately diagnosing these hernia types. Clinical discussion: Due to anatomical variations and overlapping signs and symptoms, distinguishing between femoral and inguinal hernias can be challenging. Scar tissue from previous inguinal hernia repairs can further complicate imaging interpretations. Intraoperative exploration becomes crucial to confirm the diagnosis and facilitate proper surgical repair. Conclusion: The reported case emphasizes the importance of maintaining vigilance in evaluating patients with suspected hernias, particularly those with prior inguinal hernia repairs. Relying solely on imaging studies can lead to misdiagnosis, as illustrated by the discovery of a femoral hernia during surgery. Healthcare providers should be aware of the possibility of femoral hernias and conduct comprehensive evaluations to ensure timely intervention and improve patient outcomes. Further research and awareness are essential to optimize the care of such uncommon clinical scenarios.