Monro, Alexander: Observations On Crural Hernia: To Which Is Prefixed, A General Account Of The Other Varieties Of Hernia: Illustrated By Engravings (Edinburgh [u.a.], 1803)

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arifes in consequence of the relaxation of the
muscular fibres of the parietes of the abdomen.
But, it appears to me more probable, that it is
generally occauone'd by a rupture of some of the
tendinous fibres; as it happens mo st commonly
at the linea alba; occurs most frequently in ro-
bust young persons; and is the immediate con-
sequence of violent muscular exertion.
It may possibly likewise be the consequence of
a partial weakness of the abdominal muscles,
caused by absorption of part of their fibres. Do
not the instances observed of general absorp-
tion, render such partial absorptions somewhat
probable ?
The two causes of herniae above mentioned,
viz. slrong muscular action and partial debility,
seem diametrically opposite to each other. Yet
it cannot be doubted, however paradoxical it
may appear, that these very opposite causes
sometimes concur in the formation of the dis-
ease. A proof of this, is the frequent occur-
rence of the complaint among the negroes in
the West Indies, equally exposed to the relaxing
effect