Anterolateral Abdominal Wall

The anterior abdominal wall is anatomically delineated as a hexagonal area defined superiorly by the xiphoid process, laterally by the midaxillary lines, and inferiorly by the pubic symphysis. From the superficial to deep order, the anterior abdominal wall consists of the skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscle, transversalis fascia, and peritoneum. The lateral abdominal muscles include the external and internal obliques and the transversus abdominis. Anterior abdominal muscles include the rectus abdominis and pyramidalis muscles. The abdominal wall is primarily supplied by epigastric arteries and innervated by thoracoabdominal nerves.

The inguinal region, or the groin, is located in the RLQ and LLQ of the anterior abdominal wall, bordered by the thigh inferiorly, the pubis medially, and the iliac crest superolaterally. The inguinal canal is a tubular structure that runs in a straight line from the anterior superior iliac spine to the pubic tubercle. The canal contains the spermatic cord in men and the round ligament in women. This region is clinically relevant, as it is the site for the most common type of hernias, such as indirect and direct inguinal hernias. Patients with hernias will present with a unilateral bulge in the groin that may be associated with pain. In symptomatic or high-risk cases, hernias can be repaired surgically.