To analyze the imaging features and differential diagnosis value of multi-slice spiral CT (MSCT) for indirect inguinal hernia, direct hernia and femoral hernia.

A total of 120 patients with inguinal hernia, direct hernia and femoral hernia who were admitted to Wanning people's hospital from January 2018 to January 2020 were retrospectively collected. The imaging features and identification key points of MSCT for the three types of hernia were summarized.

The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of MSCT in diagnosis of indirect inguinal hernia, direct hernia and femoral hernia were (95.24%, 95.83%, 95.45%), (92.86%, 96.15%, 95.45%) and (100.00%, 94.64%, 95.45%), respectively. The ratio of indirect hernia located at medial anterior pubic tubercle was higher than that of direct hernia and femoral hernia (P<0.05). The ratio of direct hernia located at lateral anterior pubic tubercle and detection rate of crescent sign were higher than those of indirect hernia and femoral hernia (P<0.05). The ratio of femoral hernias located at posterolateral pubic tubercle and the detection rate of femoral triangle packing sign were higher than those of direct hernia and indirect hernia (P<0.05). The ratios of mesenteric contents in indirect hernia were higher than those in direct hernia and femoral hernia (P<0.05). The ratios of bladder contents in direct hernia were higher than those in indirect hernia and femoral hernia (P<0.05). The ratios of fat contents in direct hernia and femoral hernia were higher than those in indirect hernia (P<0.05). The ratio of intestinal obstruction in direct hernia and femoral hernia was higher than that in indirect hernia (P<0.05). The ratio of enlarged inguinal inner circle in indirect hernia was higher than that in direct hernia and femoral hernia (P<0.05).

There are specific MSCT imaging signs in indirect inguinal hernia, direct hernia and femoral hernia. MSCT is of high value in identifying the three types of hernia, and it can clearly display the anatomical features of hernia sac and inguinal region, features of hernia contents and complications determining, and can help guide the identification of hernia types and determining surgical methods.