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Plugoma: CT findings after prosthetic plug inguinal hernia repairs
Lejla Aganovic1, Kevin M Ishioka, Fiona Hughes Cassidy
1Radiology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
Journal of the American College of Surgeons
|September 9, 2010
Summary
Recognizing CT findings of prosthetic plugs used in inguinal hernia repair is crucial. These plugs appear as stable, low-density masses near the inferior epigastric artery, aiding accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Surgical Oncology
- Abdominal Imaging
Background:
- Unrecognized CT findings of prosthetic plugs in inguinal hernia repair can lead to misdiagnosis.
- Familiarity with expected CT findings is essential for accurate patient assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and describe the typical computed tomography (CT) findings in patients with a history of prosthetic plug inguinal hernia repair.
- To aid radiologists in differentiating plugs from pathological findings.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study analyzing clinical and image data from a single institution.
- Review of abdominal CT scans from patients who underwent prosthetic plug hernia repair over a 5-year period.
- Two radiologists independently reviewed CT scans for hernia repair-related findings.
Main Results:
- Prosthetic plugs were identified in 100% of reviewed CT scans (n=51).
- Plugs typically appeared as round or oval, low-density masses near the inferior epigastric artery, deep to a surgical scar.
- Plugs remained stable in size and location on follow-up CT scans.
Conclusions:
- Prosthetic mesh plugs are readily identifiable on CT scans.
- Characteristic findings include a smooth, hypodense, round/oval mass near the inferior epigastric artery, stable over time.
- Radiologists must be aware of the patient's surgical history for accurate interpretation.
