Abdominal hernias: CT findings

Abdominal hernias remain a common and vexing problem for both clinicians and radiologists. Unlike inguinal hernias, which are usually diagnosed clinically and are amenable to minor surgical repair, internal hernias can be difficult to diagnose, require more extensive surgical intervention, and have an increased risk of serious complications. Additionally, it is important to recognize structures contained within a hernia sac, so that precautions are taken at surgery. Therefore, accurate preoperative diagnosis can lead to more timely and appropriate surgical management. Abdominal imaging is often the first clue to the correct diagnosis. In the past, the diagnosis of a hernia was either made clinically, with plain radiographs, or with barium studies [1]. Currently, specific diagnoses are made more frequently by CT in patients with nonspecific abdominal complaints [2]. The CT findings may be subtle or confusing; therefore, familiarity with a broad range of imaging appearances can help the radiologist make an early and specific diagnosis of abdominal hernia.