Reassessment of groin anatomy during the evolution of preperitoneal hernia repair

BACKGROUND: Need to define accurately groin anatomy as visualized by the preperitoneal approach. METHODS: Dissections of the right groin in 135 fresh male cadavers carried out during autopsy examination. Documentation by photographs and notes. RESULTS: Classic descriptions of groin anatomy confirmed for the most part, Errors concerning the lacunar ligament and conjoined tendon identified. Accurate descriptions, applicable to groin hernia repair, provided of the iliopubic tract, transversus abdominis arch and aponeurosis, femoral canal, and related structures. CONCLUSIONS: Improved communication and understanding by and among surgeons regarding groin anatomy is needed.