A Clinical Study of Complicated Groin Hernia & Its Management in a Tertiary Care Centre

Abstract

Introduction: Complicated groin hernia is a common surgical emergency associated with intestinal obstruction, strangulation, bowel ischaemia, resection, postoperative morbidity, and mortality. Early recognition and timely operative management are essential to prevent bowel loss and improve outcomes.

Aim & Objective: To evaluate the clinical profile and management of complicated groin hernia in a tertiary care centre, including presenting features, radiological findings, operative procedures, bowel viability, perioperative complications, and short-term outcomes.

Materials & Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery at Jorhat Medical College and Hospital over a period of 1 year. Sixty patients aged 12 years or above with clinically and radiologically diagnosed complicated groin hernia were included. Demographic data, clinical findings, investigations, operative details, postoperative complications, and outcomes were recorded and analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Of 60 patients, 55 (92%) were male and 5 (8%) were female, with most patients aged over 50 years. Inguinal hernia predominated in 55 (92%) cases, while femoral hernia occurred in 5 (8%). Obstruction was the most common presentation in 35 patients, followed by irreducibility in 15 and strangulation in 5. Swelling and pain were universal symptoms. Hernial contents were viable in 50 patients and non-viable in 10. Obstruction release with anatomical repair was performed in 40 patients; mesh repair and bowel resection with anastomosis were each required in 7. Postoperative pain occurred in 34 patients, seroma in 18, wound gaping in 4, and one patient died.

Conclusion: Complicated groin hernia mainly affected older males and commonly presented as obstructed right-sided inguinal hernia. Early diagnosis, prompt resuscitation, and appropriate surgery reduced bowel resection, mortality, and recurrence during short-term follow-up.

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