What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when an internal structure, usually part of the intestine or fatty tissue, pushes through a weak area in the muscle or connective tissue of the abdominal wall. This can create a visible or palpable lump, often associated with discomfort or pain.

Hernias commonly occur in the groin (inguinal or femoral hernia), umbilical area, or along previous surgical scars (incisional hernia). Some hernias are only noticeable when standing, coughing, or straining.

Ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging method used to confirm a hernia, assess its size and contents, and guide further management.

When hernia assessment is recommended

A hernia ultrasound is recommended when symptoms or examination findings suggest an abdominal wall defect.

You may be advised to have this scan if you:

• Notice a lump or bulge that comes and goes
• Experience pain or discomfort when lifting, coughing or straining
• Have groin pain without a clear cause
• Have swelling near the belly button
• Have pain at or near a previous surgical scar
• Have symptoms that worsen when standing
• Require confirmation before surgical referral
• Have inconclusive clinical examination findings

What a Hernia Ultrasound assesses

The scan evaluates:

• Presence or absence of a hernia
• Location of the abdominal wall defect
• Size of the hernia opening
• Contents of the hernia (fat or bowel)
• Changes during movement or straining
• Reducibility of the hernia

Dynamic ultrasound (performed while coughing or straining) improves diagnostic accuracy.

Benefits of a Hernia Ultrasound

1. Accurate confirmation of hernia
   Identifies hernias not always visible on examination.
2. Non-invasive and painless
   No needles or radiation exposure.
3. Dynamic real-time assessment
   Evaluates hernia behaviour during movement.
4. Supports surgical decision-making
   Helps plan appropriate treatment.
5. Detects small or occult hernias
   Useful when symptoms are subtle.
6. Safe and repeatable
   Suitable for monitoring over time.
7. Quick and well tolerated
   Usually completed within 15–25 minutes.
8. Useful for post-surgical assessment
   Evaluates suspected incisional hernias.

How the Hernia Ultrasound is performed

The scan is carried out by a trained sonographer using ultrasound equipment.

• You may be examined lying down and standing
• Ultrasound gel is applied to the area of concern
• A handheld probe is moved over the skin
• You may be asked to cough or strain briefly

The scan typically takes 15–25 minutes and requires no recovery time.

Understanding your Hernia Ultrasound results

No hernia detected

No abdominal wall defect is seen during rest or strain.

Typical report:

• No sonographic evidence of hernia

Reducible hernia

A hernia is present but returns to its normal position when relaxed.

Typical report:

• Reducible hernia identified

Non-reducible or complicated hernia

The hernia does not reduce or shows concerning features.

Typical report:

• Non-reducible hernia – surgical review advised

Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and clinical findings.