Direct vs. Indirect Hernia: What are the Differences?
There are two types of hernias: direct and indirect. Most people are familiar with the direct hernia, which is when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the abdominal wall. However, many people are not familiar with an indirect hernia, which is less common can be more dangerous. In this article, we will discuss the differences between these two types of hernias.
What is Direct Hernia?
A direct hernia occurs when a weak spot in the abdominal wall allows tissue to bulge through. The most common direct hernias occur in the groin, also called an inguinal hernia. Men are more likely to develop this type of hernia than women because their spermatic cord passes through the abdominal wall at birth, which creates a weak area that may lead to a bulge later in life.
What is Indirect Hernia?
An indirect hernia is a protrusion of abdominal tissue through the inguinal canal. It can occur in children because the spermatic cord passes through the inguinal canal into their scrotum during fetal development, which creates a weak area that may lead to a bulge later in life. The defect closes during delivery and is less common in adults.
What is the Key Difference Between Direct and Indirect Hernia?
The key difference between direct and indirect hernia is the location of the hernia. A direct hernia occurs at the inguinal ring, while an indirect hernia occurs when the peritoneum or internal lining of the abdominal cavity pushes through.
The indirect hernia is more common, accounting for about two-thirds of all hernias. It may be because the direct hernia is a more serious condition and can lead to incarceration or strangulation of the intestine. Both types of hernia can be repaired through surgery, but the indirect hernia often requires a larger incision. Recovery time is usually longer and more intensive for indirect hernias.
When Should You See a doctor?
If you have abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, and an abnormal bulge in your abdomen or groin area, contact a doctor. You may have a hernia that needs to be repaired surgically. The longer the condition is left untreated, the more serious it becomes. As the intestine moves out of place, blood flow can become constricted, which can cause tissue death. Therefore, it’s crucial that you check for signs indicating you may have a hernia and check in with your doctor right away.
To Conclude
There you have the major difference between direct and indirect hernia. To know more about the symptoms and treatment, it’s best to consult a doctor for a hernia in Long Island as early as possible to avoid complications.
