Purpose or Case Report: The female anatomic equivalent of the male processus vaginalis is the canal of Nuck. The canal is formed from a small peritoneal protuberance from the round ligament that extends through the inguinal ring, into the inguinal canal, and terminates in the labia majora. Obliteration of the canal occurs in a superior to inferior direction and usually completes within the first year of life. Non-closure results in a persistent canal of Nuck. Very rarely herniation of abdominal and pelvic contents into the canal of Nuck can occur, much less commonly in females than in the male equivalent. Hernias can present at any age but are most common in children. Recognition of this entity is especially important in cases of ovarian herniation due to the risk of incarceration.
We will provide a review normal anatomy, potential canal contents, the imaging appearance on ultrasound, CT, as well as MRI, and discuss differential diagnosis using cases of canal of Nuck hernia in 4 patients aged 22 days though 17 years.
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