This topic is about understanding when it might be necessary to seek surgical repair for a parastomal hernia. A person who had a colostomy after a jet-ski accident is experiencing a painful, grapefruit-sized hernia near their stoma and is wondering if surgery is needed. Here are some helpful insights and advice on this matter:

- Parastomal hernias, as well as other abdominal hernias, are quite common after abdominal surgeries because the abdominal wall becomes weaker.
- If a hernia is not causing any functional issues, it might be monitored rather than immediately repaired. However, if it starts to interfere with bowel movements or irrigation, surgery might be advisable.
- Surgical repair often involves moving the stoma to a higher position on the rectus muscle, which tends to have a lower chance of the hernia coming back.
- The success of hernia repairs can vary, and it largely depends on the skill of the surgeon and the correct positioning of the stoma. Therefore, consulting with an experienced surgeon is crucial.
- Hernias do not get better on their own; they usually grow larger over time and can lead to blockages or obstructions. This is especially true for large ventral hernias where the bowel protrudes, so delaying surgery can be risky.
- How much pain and discomfort you can tolerate is important. If the pain and function are manageable, it might be okay to monitor the situation for a short time. However, if symptoms worsen, the hernia grows, or there are signs of obstruction, it is important to consider surgery promptly.
- Factors that can increase the risk of the hernia coming back or getting worse include heavy lifting and being overweight. It is recommended to follow strict lifting precautions and manage your weight to protect the repair and slow down the hernia's growth.