Which of the following BEST describes a Spigelian hernia?
- A Hernia through the linea semilunaris at the junction of the transversus abdominis aponeurosis and the lateral rectus sheath ✓
- B Hernia through a defect in the posterior rectus sheath, above the arcuate line
- C Interparietal hernia occurring between layers of the abdominal wall
- D Hernia occurring through a defect in the linea alba between xiphoid and umbilicus
Correct answer: A. Hernia through the linea semilunaris at the junction of the transversus abdominis aponeurosis and the lateral rectus sheath
Explanation
A Spigelian hernia occurs through a defect in the linea semilunaris (the lateral border of the rectus abdominis) at the junction of the transversus aponeurosis. They typically occur at the level of the arcuate line (below the umbilicus), where the posterior rectus sheath is absent. They are often interparietal (between muscle layers), making them difficult to diagnose clinically; CT or ultrasound is often needed. They require surgical repair due to high incarceration risk.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.