An inguinal hernia, a type of groin hernia, is a protrusion of part of the intestines through a weak or defective part of the lower abdominal wall. MayoClinic.com states that inguinal hernias are almost 10 times more likely in males. They occur in newborns and children as well as adults. Inguinal hernias can enlarge over time, so it is always advisable to repair them. Although inguinal hernia surgery has advanced over the years, complications may occur.
Recurrence
Recurrence is the most common complication after inguinal hernia repair operations, states the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Recurrence isn't necessarily immediate; the patient can remain hernia-free for years before the inguinal hernia recurs. Recurrence is problematic because the scar tissue formed after the first operation will make the second revision surgery more technically challenging. To reduce the risk of recurrence, the surgeons reinforce the weakened part of the lower abdominal wall by using a synthetic mesh--a procedure known as hernioplasty.
Wound Infection and Bleeding
Bleeding in the incision occurs in about 2 percent of the patients undergoing inguinal hernia surgery, causing the skin around the wound to become blue and swollen. The incision site will also be painful to the touch. Another incision-related complication that causes the wound to swell is infection. An infected wound will be red, warm and tender. Additionally, the patient might experience a fever or discharge from the incision site. Wound infection requires antibiotic treatment. If the infection is severe, a small cut will be necessary to drain the pus.
Anesthesia
While potentially fatal, complications due to anesthesia are rare when the operation is elective and the patient is fit and healthy. But if the inguinal hernia is operated upon as an emergency because it was complicated by obstruction, for example, there will be less time to prepare the patient for anesthesia. This increases the risk of complications such as swallowing of vomitus into the airways while unconscious, also known as aspiration.
