Femoral hernias are less common and occur more frequently in women. It can be difficult to tell between an inguinal and femoral hernia. They are usually smaller and extend toward the thigh compartment. Because the defect through which the hernia has to pass is tight, there is a higher chance incarceration or strangulation. Therefore, early repair is typically advised.
Like inguinal hernias, femoral hernias are excellently suited to repair using a "tension free" technique. A mesh repair performed under local anesthetic is excellently suited for repair of femoral hernias and can be performed as an outpatient operation. Laparoscopic techniques may also be used to repair occult or recurrent femoral hernias.
