The ultrasound images show two views of the same groin region — one without compression (left image labeled “W/O COMPRESSION”) and one with graded probe compression (right image labeled “W/ COMPRESSION”).
In the non-compression image, a hypoechoic mass-like structure is visible protruding through the abdominal wall, consistent with a hernia sac. On the compression image, the herniated content is no longer visible, indicating that the contents have been pushed back into the abdominal cavity. This is the hallmark feature of a reducible hernia.
Key characteristics of a reducible hernia on ultrasound:
Herniated contents are visible without pressure.
Contents disappear or reduce back into the abdomen with graded probe compression or Valsalva release.
Typically includes omental fat or bowel, but reduction confirms lack of incarceration or strangulation.
Comparison of answer choices:
A. Fat only refers to the hernia content type, not the behavior or reducibility shown here.
B. Reducible — Correct. The change in hernia appearance between images demonstrates successful reduction with compression.
C. Incarcerated hernia would remain visible and not compressible or reducible.
D. Strangulated hernia would show signs of ischemia (bowel wall thickening, absent perfusion, hyperechoic mesentery), and would also not reduce with compression.
[References:, Radswiki. Ultrasound evaluation of hernia. Radiopaedia.org, Rumack CM, Wilson SR, Charboneau JW, Levine D. Diagnostic Ultrasound, 5th ed. Elsevier; 2017., AIUM Practice Parameter for the Performance of a Focused Ultrasound Examination for Hernia (2021), , , ]
Submit