Point-of-Care Ultrasound in the Diagnosis of an Incarcerated Inguinal Hernia

Abstract

Emergency physicians can use point-of-care ultrasound to diagnose inguinal hernias as well as their potential complications, including small bowel obstruction, incarceration, and even strangulation. We provide an overview of the sonographic appearance of inguinal hernias, as well as the diagnostic criteria of serious complications. In this case report, point-of-care ultrasound findings included a non-reducible inguinal hernia associated with significant bowel dilation in multiple loops without signs of intestinal ischemia or necrosis.