Inguinal Hernia Surgery Complications

An inguinal hernia is a bulge formed in groin, by a part of the intestine pushing itself through opened muscles in the abdominal wall. It occurs in boys and men, and can either be a birth defect, or develop later. If left untreated it can present further complications. (Hernias are caused when the muscles in the groin become strained due to heavy lifting, persistent coughing, or in overweight individuals. The symptoms are swelling and pain in the groin, and intestinal blockage. If left untreated, an inguinal hernia can become enlarged and cause discomfort.

Complications

• Some people develop complications, common to any surgery or postoperatively, such as reaction to anesthetics, excessive bleeding, or development of a blood clot in the legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT).

Blood Build Up

• In rare cases, blood or fluid, will occupy the space where the hernia was located. Drainage of the fluid will be necessary, if it does not resolve itself.

Pain and Swelling

• Painful swelling of the scrotum or testicles occurs occasionally in men, and may require further treatment.

Related Injuries

• Injury to other tissues, though rare can occur during the surgery.

Pain and Numbness

• Pain or numbness in the groin can occur up to a year, and will require further surgery if it is due to an irritated nerve.

Recurrence

• In some cases the hernia re-occurs, especially if a mesh was not used to repair the hernia.