What is inguinal canal and its function and what is inguinal hernia?
What is inguinal canal and its function and what is inguinal hernia?
The inguinal canal, located just above the inguinal ligament, is a small passage that extends medially and inferiorly through the lower part of the abdominal wall. This canal is about four to six centimeters in length and runs in a parallel fashion. The canal functions as a passageway for structures that extend from the abdominal cavity to the scrotum. In males, it transmits the spermatic cord, while in females, it transmits the round ligament of the uterus.
Function The anatomy of the inguinal canal is important to know because it has clinical relevance. When defects occur in the abdominal wall in this location, hernias can develop. These often need to be surgically repaired to avoid complications. It is important for surgeons to note that the mid-inguinal point marks the area between the anterior superior iliac spine and the pubic symphysis. Deep in this location, the femoral artery in the pelvic cavity enters the lower limb. The femoral artery can only be palpated below the inguinal ligament.
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. The resulting bulge can be painful, especially when you cough, bend over or lift a heavy object.
An inguinal hernia isn't necessarily dangerous. It doesn't improve on its own, however, and can lead to life-threatening complications. Your doctor is likely to recommend surgery to fix an inguinal hernia that's painful or enlarging. Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure.
The inguinal canal, located just above the inguinal ligament, is a small passage that extends medially and inferiorly through the lower part of the abdominal wall. This canal is about four to six centimeters in length and runs in a parallel fashion. The canal functions as a passageway for structures that extend from the abdominal cavity to the scrotum. In males, it transmits the spermatic cord, while in females, it transmits the round ligament of the uterus.
FunctionThe anatomy of the inguinal canal is important to know because it has clinical relevance. When defects occur in the abdominal wall in this location, hernias can develop. These often need to be surgically repaired to avoid complications. It is important for surgeons to note that the mid-inguinal point marks the area between the anterior superior iliac spine and the pubic symphysis. Deep in this location, the femoral artery in the pelvic cavity enters the lower limb. The femoral artery can only be palpated below the inguinal ligament.
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. The resulting bulge can be painful, especially when you cough, bend over or lift a heavy object.
An inguinal hernia isn't necessarily dangerous. It doesn't improve on its own, however, and can lead to life-threatening complications. Your doctor is likely to recommend surgery to fix an inguinal hernia that's painful or enlarging. Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure.
