Dear Dr. Hibberd:
My father was diagnosed an abdominal hernia. He is 82 and in pain. Do you think he needs surgery? I’m worried about him undergoing an operation at his age.
Answer:
When there is a weakness in the muscular structure of the wall of the abdomen, a hernia occurs. It can become serious if the blood supply to the hernia is cut off. Then surgery is required to release the strangulation of the hernia causing the problem. Pain and discomfort are warning signs of compromised circulation when present over a hernia site. I recommend you have your father's hernia examined as soon as possible. Any hernia that causes pain that is not completely relieved by reducing the herniated segment to its normal location is best considered for surgical repair. Emergency repair is necessary when circulation to the herniated tissue is compromised or when obstruction is evident. These days, it is a simple procedure to repair hernias through a small incision, and if your father is otherwise healthy and your doctor suggests surgery, his age should not be a concern.
I hope this answers your question.
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