Diagnostic Tools in Hernia Disease

Abstract

Although the majority of inguinal and ventral hernias can be diagnosed using history and physical, imaging modalities are often used in hernia disease to confirm diagnosis or to diagnose occult hernias, to assist in operative planning of complex hernia repairs, and to follow up patients for recurrence and to evaluate for causes of chronic pain after hernia repair. Several imaging modalities commonly used include ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scanning, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Each of these modalities has a place in the evaluation of hernia disease with the use tailored to the information needed and based on the clinical scenario. This chapter reviews the imaging modalities commonly used in inguinal and ventral/incisional hernia disease including recommendations for their use.