Imaging of abdominal hernias.

Abstract

Abdominal hernias are a common clinical problem. The main types of abdominal hernias are external or abdominal wall hernias, which involve protrusion of abdominal contents through a defect in the abdominal wall; internal hernias, which involve protrusion of viscera through the peritoneum or mesentery and into a compartment in the abdominal cavity; and diaphragmatic hernias, which involve protrusion of abdominal contents into the chest. Clinical diagnosis of abdominal hernias can be difficult. However, plain radiography, radiography performed after administration of barium, and computed tomography allow evaluation of suspected abdominal hernias and detection of those that are clinically occult. The anatomic location of the hernia, the contents, and complications such as incarceration, bowel obstruction, volvulus, and strangulation can be demonstrated with radiologic examination. Occasionally, complications such as neoplasms or inflammatory conditions can be identified in the hernial contents. With abdominal imaging modalities, a variety of abdominal hernias can be confidently diagnosed.

• Authors: P A Miller, D G Mezwa, P J Feczko, Z H Jafri, B L Madrazo
• Journal: Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc (Radiographics) Vol. 15 Issue 2 Pg. 333-47 (Mar 1995) ISSN: 0271-5333 [Print] United States
• PMID: 7761639 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Topics

• Child
• Female
• Hernia, Diaphragmatic (diagnostic imaging)
• Hernia, Ventral (diagnostic imaging)
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Tomography, X-Ray Computed