Emergency hernia repairs in elderly patients

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical presentation, morbidity, and mortality and to identify the factors that might affect the outcome of emergency repair in elderly patients. A study of 143 patients (> 65 years old) who underwent emergency surgical repair for incarcerated external hernias during the period 1992-2001 was done. Fifty patients (35%) presented after 48 hours of symptoms onset. Coexisting diseases were found in 104 cases (77.7%). Bowel resection was required in 25 patients (17.5%). Overall morbidity was 46.2%, and major complications were seen in 17 cases (11.9%). Mortality was observed in seven patients (4.9%). Longer duration of symptoms, delayed hospitalization, concomitant illness, and high American Society of Anesthesiologists scores were significant factors linked with unfavorable outcome. To avoid the increased risks of emergency hernia repairs in the elderly, priority admission and early elective surgery should be used.