Computed tomographic evaluation of spigelian hernia.

Spigelian hernia is an uncommon hernia of the anterior abdominal wall. Because of its insidious nature and at times nonspecific physical findings associated with it, the diagnosis of this hernia is often not made. Typically, the hernial orifice is small, and strangulation of the contents of the hernial sac can occur. Computed tomography permits the distinction between spigelian hernia and other anterior abdominal wall or intra-abdominal masses. When a spigelian hernia is found, CT is useful in establishing contents of the hernial sac and defects in the fascial plane.