Complications may arise post-operation, including rejection of the mesh that is used to repair the hernia. In the event of a mesh rejection, the mesh will very likely need to be removed. Mesh rejection can be detected by obvious, sometimes localised swelling and pain around the mesh area. Continuous discharge from the scar is likely for a while after the mesh has been removed. A surgically treated hernia can lead to complications, while an untreated hernia may be complicated by:
- Inflammation
- Irreducibility
- Obstruction of any lumen, such as bowel obstruction in intestinal hernias
- Strangulation
- Hydrocele of the hernial sac
- Haemorrhage
- Autoimmune problems
- Incarceration, which is where it cannot be reduced,or pushed back into place, at least not without very much external effort. In intestinal hernias, this also substantially increases the risk of bowel obstruction and strangulation.