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Background
Abdominal herniation is a common imaging finding in the abdomen and is defined as a protrusion of abdominal contents through a normal or abnormal aperture. While many abdominal hernias are found incidentally, accurate radiological identification and characterization is important due to risk of complications such as bowel obstruction requiring emergent intervention.

Educational Goals / Teaching Points
The goal of this presentation is to provide a simple framework for classification, characterization, and interpretation of abdominal hernias, particularly those presenting acutely for urgent evaluation. We present illustrative cases of the most common and clinically relevant hernia types. Further, we provide simple heuristics to distinguish between different hernias based on imaging characteristics. For example, we will demonstrate how the pubic tubercle can be used to delineate femoral, direct inguinal, and indirect inguinal hernias. Finally, we will highlight potential complications of abdominal hernias and associated “can’t miss” findings. Our presentation will be tailored to all radiology audiences but is particularly high yield for trainees on call.

Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
Key imaging findings to look for in abdominal hernias include incarceration, strangulation, ischemia/infarction, bowel obstruction, and volvulus. Hernias may be identified on multiple modalities, including CT, US, MRI and plain film.

Conclusion
Abdominal hernias present in many locations and range from incidental findings to surgical emergencies. We present a pictorial review to demystify this broad but important imaging finding.