Beyond the hernia in groin ultrasound

INTRODUCTION: Groin discomfort is one of the most common presenting complaints in health care and often requires ultrasound to detect hernias. However, such singular emphasis leads to over diagnosing hernia and other significant aetiologies in and around the groin are overlooked. TOPIC DESCRIPTION: The article elaborates on the key areas a sonographer needs to focus on and presents a range of conditions responsible for groin pain other than hernia. DISCUSSION: In addition to evaluating for hernia, a groin ultrasound should evaluate structures in the inguinal canal, the adductor muscles and symphyseal region, the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, the femoral neurovascular bundle, the hip joint with periarticular regions and the structures in the right iliac fossa. CONCLUSION: Sonographers must have a methodical approach, a good knowledge of normal anatomy and pathologies and a comprehensive understanding of the various types of groin abnormalities for a thorough examination.