Urgent Help Needed: Grandfather's Urinary Issues After Hernia Surgery

Urgent matter... prompt response... thank you..?

My grandfather has had two surgeries for hernias in the past, but now he is in the emergency room because he is unable to urinate or have a bowel movement.
It has been three hours, and I am very worried.
Can you please tell me what this situation might be? Thank you.

Danxin waigong de sunzi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/18

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Could it be that the prostate enlargement is causing difficulty in urination? Or is it pain from the incision after hernia surgery?

Reply Date: 2004/09/18

More Info

It sounds like your grandfather is experiencing a significant and concerning issue following his hernia surgery. The inability to urinate or defecate after such a procedure can be attributed to several factors, particularly in elderly patients who may have underlying health conditions.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that after any surgical procedure, especially one involving the abdominal area, patients can experience changes in bowel and bladder function. In your grandfather's case, the surgery may have caused temporary nerve damage or irritation around the pelvic region, which can lead to urinary retention. This is particularly common in older adults, as they may have pre-existing conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which can further complicate urinary function.

Another potential cause for his urinary difficulties could be related to pain management post-surgery. If your grandfather is on pain medications, particularly opioids, these can lead to constipation and urinary retention as they slow down the gastrointestinal tract and can affect bladder function. Additionally, if he is experiencing significant pain at the surgical site, this discomfort can inhibit his ability to relax the muscles necessary for urination.

Given that he has already been in the emergency room for three hours without resolution, it is crucial that he receives appropriate medical attention. The medical team may need to perform a bladder scan to assess for urinary retention and determine if a catheterization is necessary to relieve the pressure and allow for urination. If there is a blockage or other underlying issue, further diagnostic tests may be required.

In the meantime, it’s essential to monitor his overall condition. Look for signs of distress, such as abdominal pain, swelling, or fever, which could indicate a more serious complication. If he has not been able to pass stool either, this could suggest a more systemic issue, such as bowel obstruction, which is also a possibility after abdominal surgery.

For elderly patients, hydration is also crucial. If he is able to drink fluids, encourage him to do so, as this can sometimes help stimulate bladder function. However, if he is experiencing nausea or vomiting, this may complicate his ability to hydrate effectively.

In summary, your grandfather's inability to urinate or defecate after hernia surgery is a serious concern that requires immediate medical evaluation. It could be due to a variety of factors, including nerve irritation, pain management issues, or underlying conditions like BPH. Prompt intervention is necessary to prevent further complications, and it’s important to keep communicating with the healthcare providers to ensure he receives the appropriate care.

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