Abdominal wall and groin problems

This course is divided into six units that provide an in-depth look at abdominal wall and groin pathologies:

Unit 1: Abdominal Wall Anatomy and Masses
Begin with an overview of the anatomy of the abdominal wall, including muscles, fascia, and common sites of pathology. Learn to identify and differentiate hernias, rectus sheath hematomas, and other abdominal wall masses based on clinical examination and imaging.

Unit 2: Types of Hernias
This unit delves into various hernias, including epigastric, umbilical, paraumbilical, Spigelian, incisional, and Richter’s hernias. Gain insights into their pathophysiology, clinical presentations, and management options, from conservative treatment to advanced laparoscopic repairs.

Unit 3: Rectus Sheath Hematomas and Rectus Diastasis
Understand the presentation, causes, and treatment of rectus sheath hematomas and rectus diastasis. Learn to distinguish these conditions from hernias using clinical signs and imaging modalities like ultrasound and CT scans.

Unit 4: Desmoid Tumors
Explore the characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of desmoid tumors, a rare abdominal wall pathology. This unit covers surgical resection techniques, the role of imaging in preoperative planning, and non-surgical options such as chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.

Unit 5: Groin Masses – Hernia and Non-Hernia Causes
Focus on the evaluation and management of groin masses. Topics include inguinal and femoral hernias, lymphadenopathy, aneurysms, and scrotal conditions. The unit emphasises differentiating between hernias and non-hernia conditions using clinical and imaging approaches.

Unit 6: Groin Pain and Sports Hernias
Conclude with an exploration of groin pain, focusing on sports hernias and their non-surgical and surgical management. Learn to assess athletes with chronic groin pain and implement core-strengthening and rehabilitation protocols, with surgical repair options for severe cases.

Through detailed case studies, clinical images, and practical management strategies, this course prepares participants to confidently assess and treat abdominal wall and groin pathologies in various clinical settings.

1. Diagnose common abdominal wall and groin problems and sports injuries.
2. Judge when to refer patients with abdominal wall and groin problems to a surgeon and what to include in the referral.

All degree qualified medical practitioners.