PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which type of hernia accounts for 96% of all groin hernias?

1. Umbilical hernias

2. Direct hernias

3. Femoral hernias

4. Inguinal hernias

The correct answer is: Inguinal hernias

Inguinal hernias are the most common type of groin hernia, accounting for about 96% of all groin hernias. This prevalence can be attributed to the anatomical structures of the inguinal region, where increased intra-abdominal pressure can lead to a weakness in the abdominal wall. Inguinal hernias can be classified further into direct and indirect hernias, both of which occur in the inguinal region but originate from different anatomical pathways. The distinction lies in how each type protrudes through the abdominal wall. Given that inguinal hernias comprise such a vast majority of groin hernias, it's clear that they are the predominant type clinicians encounter and treat. The other hernia types mentioned do have clinical significance, but they are much less common in comparison to inguinal hernias. Umbilical hernias are generally found around the belly button, while femoral hernias occur below the inguinal ligament in the femoral canal, contributing far less to the total incidence of groin hernias. The high prevalence of inguinal hernias is important for medical professionals to understand, as it informs both diagnosis and treatment approaches in surgical practice.