A hernia occurs when intestine pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, creating a bulge or lump under the skin. A person who has had hernia repair before may develop an incisional hernia, or a hernia that reoccurs at the incision site of a past surgery. A reoccurring hernia may need to be operated on again to prevent intestinal blockage. MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health, states that hernia repair surgery is generally safe; however, risks and complications do exist.
Anesthesia Complications
Incisional hernia repair is performed under general anesthesia. Some people have mild reactions to anesthesia, including nausea, vomiting, a sore throat and a headache. However, severe reactions to anesthesia may occur, including a heart attack, a stroke and pneumonia. A person with heart or cardiovascular disease or those prone to pneumonia and infection may be at higher risk for anesthesia complications, according to MayoClinic.com.
Organ Damage
MedlinePlus reports that, rarely, damage to other organs may occur during hernia repair. Punctures or lacerations may occur to the liver, stomach and intestines, as well as the kidneys and bladder. Women may sustain damage of the uterus or ovaries during the procedure. Blood vessels running to these organs may also be damaged and, in some cases, additional surgery to repair the damage may be required.
Infection
Infection of the incision site may occur. The symptoms of an infection may include redness and swelling over or around the incision. Pus or thick yellow drainage may also appear from the incision, which may have a foul odor. Fever, chills and a general feeling of illness may also accompany an incisional infection.
Mesh may be used in some hernia repairs as reinforcement. Infection may also occur inside the body where mesh was placed over the hernia. Symptoms of mesh-related infection include pain over the hernia repair site and fever. In some cases, the Society of Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons states, severe mesh-related infections may result in mesh being removed to prevent further complications.
Hernia Reoccurrence
A hernia may happen again after having been repaired. The American College of Surgeons states the risk of hernia recurrence is cut in half if mesh was used to cover the hernia site. A person with recent hernia repair surgery may need to follow a restricted lifestyle temporarily to prevent the hernia from coming back. Heavy lifting, bending and twisting motions are usually restricted until the hernia is allowed to heal.
Additional Risks
The American College of Surgeons reports that additional complications of hernia repair surgery are possible. A person may experience hematoma, or blood collection under the skin, at the incision site. Urinary retention may also occur which makes it difficult or impossible to urinate. Men may experience testicular swelling or pain after surgery as well.
