inguinal hernia, a hernia in which a loop of intestine enters the inguinal canal. In a male it sometimes fills the scrotal sac. An inguinal hernia is usually repaired surgically to prevent the herniated segment from becoming strangulated, gangrenous, or obstructive, thereby blocking passage of waste through the bowel. Of all hernias, 75% to 80% are inguinal hernias. See also hernia.
