High coincidence of inguinal hernias and abdominal aortic aneurysms

Weakness in the musculotendinous barrier of the abdominal wall leads to inguinal herniation. Fiber degeneration by increased metabolism has been described recently as a causative factor. In previous investigations heightened elastase was detected in abdominal aneurysms. In order to investigate a possible relationship between hernias and abdominal aneurysms, patients scheduled for infrarenal aneurysm repair were examined for history of inguinal hernia. The prevalence of inguinal hernias (n = 49; 41%, p less than .001) in 119 patients with abdominal aneurysms was significantly elevated, compared to 81 patients with aortic occlusive disease (n = 15; 18.5%) and 298 patients with coronary artery disease (n = 54; 18.1%). Additionally, the number of patients with recent hernia repair (n = 19; 16%) or still awaiting repair (n = 11; 9%) was very high in the patient group with abdominal aortic aneurysms. Smoking habits were not different among all groups. We conclude that the prevalence of inguinal hernias in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms is high compared with those with peripheral arterial occlusive disease or coronary atherosclerosis. These findings indicate a systemic fiber degeneration.