Inguinal Hernia as a Predictor of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abstract

Background: This study aims to evaluate the potential predictive value of inguinal hernia (IH) as an indicator for the presence of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and proposes ultrasound screening of the abdominal aorta in men over 55 years of age.  Aim: The paper seeks to demonstrate that men aged 55 and older, who either undergo surgical treatment for inguinal hernias or are diagnosed with IH through examination, should be included in a screening program. This program would involve ultrasound examination of the abdominal aorta to reduce mortality and improve outcomes for this life-threatening condition. Methods: Men over 55 years who underwent primary surgery for IH received ultrasound imaging of the abdominal aorta. The control group consisted of men without clinical evidence of IH. Results: The prevalence of AAA in the IH group was 5 out of 60 (8.33%), compared to 1 out of 60 (1.67%) in the control group, representing a statistically significant difference (p=0.0426). The aortic diameter in the experimental group was 2.24±0.61 cm, compared to 1.98±0.28 cm in the control group. The results show a significantly larger aortic diameter in the experimental group (p=0.0035).  Conclusion: Men aged 55 and older, who undergo surgical treatment for IH or are diagnosed with IH, particularly those with comorbidities such as hypertension (HTA), should be included in a screening program. This program should involve ultrasound examination of the abdominal aorta to reduce mortality and improve the chances of early detection and treatment of AAA.