Background
The hernial sac usually contains a part of the small intestine and the omentum. Rarely, the hernial sac may contain unusual contents like the urinary bladder, appendix, ovary, kidney graft, seminal vesicles, sigmoid colon, and cecum.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
Show a brief review of the radiologic anatomy of the inguinal canal and hernias of this location. Case-based discussion of imaging findings and pitfalls of uncommon hernial sacs contents of the inguinal canal. Familiarize radiology residents with these findings to expedite accurate diagnosis.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
The inguinal canal is an oblique canal about 4 cm long, slanting downward and medialward, and placed parallel with and a little above the inguinal ligament; it extends from the abdominal inguinal ring to the subcutaneous inguinal ring. The inguinal canal is lined by the aponeuroses of three muscles: external oblique, internal oblique, and transversus abdominis.
Conclusion
Unusual content of the inguinal region is a diagnostic challenge. Therefore, imaging plays an essential role in this process, and radiologists should be familiar with the relevant findings. Knowledge of the presentation forms of inguinal hernias, different contents of such hernias, and potential complications are critical for correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
