A hernia can occur when a part of an internal organ such as the appendix, intestines or gallbladder bulges through a weak area of the abdominal muscle, causing a small hole, according to Medline Plus. This condition typically develops as a result of muscle weakness and straining, but it can also occur in people who are born with weak abdominal muscles. Treatment generally consists of surgery to repair the muscle wall opening. Complications such as pain, swelling, bleeding and infection can occur following surgery.
Internal Gangrene
Internal gangrene can occur after hernia surgery when organ tissue dies as a result of reduced blood supply to the repaired area, according to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Internal gangrene consists of a full or heavy feeling in the affected area that is accompanied by severe pain and/or swelling. Following hernia surgery a person may experience gangrene when an organ pushes through the muscle and/or surrounding tissue wall, blocking blood flow to the intestines, appendix or gallbladder.
Pain and Swelling
Pain and swelling are common post-hernia complications. Most people report some degree of pain in the affected area immediately after hernia surgery. The pain generally lasts between two and six days and it is usually controlled with oral pain medication. Swelling can occur when blood and fluid pool at the surgical site following hernia surgery. In males, the swelling typically travels from the surgical site down to the base of the penis and/or testicular sack, according to the Pacific Hernia Center in Los Angeles, California. If the pain and swelling does not recede on its own within a week or two, then it may signal a more serious condition, such as a trapped nerve, that requires medical attention.
Infection
Some people may develop an infection at the incision site following hernia surgery. Symptoms of an infection may include fever, discharge, redness, swelling and/or tenderness around the incision, according to the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse. Treatment for a post-operative infection generally consists of antibiotics, but in some cases a small opening in the incision site may be needed to drain the fluid from the affected area.
