What is a common complication of untreated inguinal hernias?

Strangulation is a significant complication of untreated inguinal hernias and occurs when the herniated tissue becomes trapped and its blood supply is compromised. Inguinal hernias can allow a portion of intestine or other tissue to protrude through the abdominal wall. When this herniated tissue gets obstructed, it can lead to ischemia, as the blood vessels supplying that tissue are cut off. This condition requires urgent medical intervention because the affected tissue can become necrotic and lead to severe systemic complications such as sepsis if not promptly addressed.

The urgency of strangulated hernias makes them a critical point of discussion in surgical training, as timely surgical repair prevents significant morbidity associated with bowel necrosis and the potential for sepsis. In contrast, while infection can occur postoperatively in any surgical procedure, chronic pain may develop from any surgical intervention or as a result of the hernia itself, and recurrent hernias are more related to surgical technique rather than immediate complications of untreated cases.