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Hernias occur when an organ or tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the muscle or connective tissue that normally contains it. Common types include inguinal, umbilical, hiatal, and incisional hernias, with inguinal hernias being the most frequent. Most hernias require surgical repair to prevent complications such as incarceration or strangulation.
Hernias develop due to increased intra-abdominal pressure combined with weakened fascial planes or congenital defects in the abdominal wall. Risk factors include heavy lifting, chronic coughing, obesity, pregnancy, and genetic predisposition to connective tissue weakness. The hernia sac contains peritoneum and may include abdominal contents such as bowel, omentum, or other organs.
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on physical examination revealing a palpable bulge that may increase with Valsalva maneuver and reduce when supine. Imaging with ultrasound, CT, or MRI may be needed for occult hernias or surgical planning. Emergency presentation occurs with incarceration (irreducible hernia) or strangulation (compromised blood supply), requiring immediate surgical intervention to prevent bowel necrosis and perforation.