[Anatomy and mechanism of inguinal hernias]

Anterior abdominal wall presents a weak point between the pelvic bone and the muscular arch of transverse and internal oblique muscles. This myo-pectineal orifice, crossed by the inguinal ligament is closed by the transversalis fascia. All groin hernias, inguinal directs, indirects or femoral, result from a defect of the transversalis fascia. They have two causes. Congenital hernias result from a persisting peritoneo-vaginal canal. Acquired hernias result from a progressive weakening of the transversalis fascia depending on connective tissue insufficiency and increase of intra-abdominal pressure.