in general hernias that are at risk for complications that cause pain or that limit activity should be repaired. if they are not repaired there is a risk that an emergency surgical procedure may be required at a later date. sometimes a hernia can be temporarily controlled by wearing a belt-like device that applies external compression which pushes the tissues back into the abdomen and holds them there. this device is called a truss. the truss must be carefully applied on a daily basis. it should only be used for selected situations following careful evaluation by a doctor.
should all hernias be repaired?