Possible Complications
What problems can occur after a hernia repair?
Some of the complications that may occur after a hernia repair include:
- Fluid buildup at the site of mesh placement, sometimes requiring draining off (aspiration).
- Post-operative bleeding, though seldom enough to require repeat surgery.
- Prolonged suture pain, treated with pain medication or anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Injury to intra-abdominal organs like the intestines, liver etc.
- Nerve injury.
- Fever, usually related to surgical wound infection.
- Intra-abdominal (within the abdominal wall) abscess.
- Urinary retention.
- Blood clots can form in the legs due to inactivity after surgery. If these get dislodged they can get embedded in the lungs leading to respiratory distress.
What should I do if there is a problem?
Contact your GP or Suite 10 at the Galway Clinic (091-720050) if:
- The wound starts to become red, or pain and tenderness develops
- You develop increasing abdominal pain, or
- You have any worries
Contact your GP or Suite 10 at the Galway Clinic immediately if you experience:
- Significant bleeding
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent light headedness
- Chills and/or fever greater than 101°F
- Pus or infection at the incisions
- Inability to pass urine
- Severe pain
- Any worrisome condition
Follow-up
If everything has been straightforward, then a follow-up appointment should not be necessary.
However if you have any concerns or problems contact your GP or Mr McLaughlin’s office at 091 720050.
