The Henry operation for incarcerated and strangulated femoral hernias.

Selection of a subinguinal, inguinal, or preperitoneal approach permits the surgeon flexibility in managing femoral hernias. A 20-year experience is reviewed, with 44 incarcerated or strangulated femoral hernias corrected using the preperitoneal Henry operation. It is an effective and safe method of repair. Examination of the contralateral side revealed an unsuspected femoral hernia in seven (16%) of the cases.