Ultrasound of the inguinal and femoral region, with Doppler depending on the indication
Groin ultrasound (hernia) in Casablanca
This ultrasound examines the groin crease and the upper thigh. It mainly looks for a hernia: a small amount of fat or bowel that pushes out through a weak point in the abdominal wall. It also studies a lymph node or a lump in the groin. It distinguishes an inguinal hernia, above the crease, from a femoral hernia, just below it. Painless and without X-rays, it can be repeated safely.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Allow about 15 to 20 minutes.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE & Hitachi
Contact the center
This exam is booked by phone or WhatsApp.
When is this exam needed?
- Lump in the groin that appears with exertion or when standing.
- Groin pain without a visible lump, especially in athletes.
- Lymph node or lump in the groin.
- Discomfort or suspected recurrence after a hernia repair.
- Lump in the crease of the thigh, suggesting a femoral hernia.
- Groin swelling in a child, more visible when the child cries or strains.
How the exam is done
You lie down with your groin uncovered, then sometimes stand up. The doctor places the probe with gel on the groin crease, on both sides. The thigh vessels serve as a starting point to locate the inguinal canal.
The doctor asks you to cough or to push as if having a bowel movement: this effort makes a hernia that is hidden at rest appear. The doctor then observes what comes out, fat or bowel, and checks that it goes back in when you relax. When you stand, a hernia that does not come out while lying down sometimes becomes visible. You then get dressed and return to your activities.
Preparation
- Wear clothing that is easy to lower to the top of your thighs.
- Note in which situations the lump appears: when standing, carrying a load or coughing.
Fasting
There is no need to fast. Eat and drink as usual.
Contrast injection
No contrast agent is used for this ultrasound.
Contraindications and precautions
- Ultrasound has no contraindication.
- Hernia that has become hard, very painful and no longer goes back in, with vomiting: go to the emergency department.
- Recent groin surgery: give its date and say whether a mesh was placed.
- Pain too severe to cough or push: tell the doctor, who adapts the maneuvers.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from your doctor or surgeon
- Report of a previous hernia operation
- Previous ultrasounds or CT scans
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Why cough or push?
The effort increases the pressure in the abdomen: a hernia that is absent at rest then comes out and becomes visible on the screen.
Are both groins examined?
Yes, most often. Comparing them helps to detect a small hernia, sometimes present on the side that does not hurt.
Can a hernia be missed?
It is possible if it is very small or only comes out with certain efforts; your doctor compares the result with their own examination.
What happens if a hernia is found?
Your doctor or the surgeon discusses the next steps with you. A CT scan is only rarely needed, for example if there is doubt.
Can my child have this exam?
Yes. With no X-rays and no needle, it is suitable for children. A parent can stay close by, and the child's crying, which increases the pressure in the abdomen, sometimes helps to show the hernia.