Hernia

[Rognoni]

I'd like an opinion from this wonderful, supportive & knowledgeable CKD group.

I'm 77 year old male, stage 4 CKD with 2.7 creatinine & 21 eGFR.

I'm having symptoms of Hernia on my right side. I already had Hernia repair surgery on my left side about 4 years ago so I believe I recognize the symptoms.

Would general anesthesia, or the surgery itself, have an adverse effect on the kidneys? Particularly on the creatinine & eGFR levels.

Can it be done with local anesthesia?

Thank you for your response, I have learned so much from this support group, much more than from my previous nephrologist, I recently changed to a new doctor.

[Hidden]

I hope your doctors, including the surgeon performing this procedure, is aware of your being a CKD patient. Have you spoken to the surgeon and asked these questions? I don't know you or the specifics of your situation. The only people who can answer those questions are the doctors, especially the surgeon, involved. Please consult with them.

[orangecity41 NKF Ambassador]

I am 78 year old male, CKD level 3. I have not had experience with your type of surgery. However when I had a procedure, I let the anesthesiologist know of my level of CKD and also my recent blood test results and he made modifications. Something to discuss with your surgeon also.

[Sammi_n_Munk]

Hello Rognoni! Before I open my big mouth, (or let my fingers run away on me, that is, lol) I just want to say, I’m a 50-year-old female and I don’t know much about these things. However, I’ve looked up the effects of hernia surgery on kidney function, and from what I read, it appears that there could be a possibility that surgery could affect renal function. But quite honestly, I would have to agree with the others on this. This is definitely something that your medical team should be addressing with you. Don’t feel shy about asking them questions and making certain that they understand the condition of your kidneys. This is something that they should be taking into account before proceeding with any remedies for your situation. I understand your concern, and I wish there was something more comforting that I could say. But I’m sure that once you’ve discussed this with your doctors, they will be able to deliver an appropriate solution that best suits your condition. Be sure when you visit with them, to mention everything that concerns you about your existing health issues, and ask questions and demand complete answers to them. I don’t believe I was much help to you, but hope that I helped even a little. Please keep us posted on things, and I wish you all the best! God bless! 😊👍

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador]

As others have said, "speak with your health professionals". Just me and my opinion about all of my procedures and surgeries make sure (and repeat as often as needed) all anesthesiologists are aware of your CKD health history and current status...remind them to use kidney friendly medications for pre, surgery and post surgery care. Its okay if they get tired of your reminders, as long as its what's best for you. None of my surgeries or procedures (anesthesia wise) ever caused deterioration of my CKD status. Blessings

[Jayhawker]

I actually request that ALL doctors I work with check in with my nephrologist before moving forward with any new treatment plans. I want to ensure that any meds they want to start are not a problem for me. I want any surgical procedures discussed including how I’ll be put under, etc.

I had a colonoscopy last summer and requested that that specialist contact my nephrologist to discuss my case before I would move forward. I then asked my nephrologist’s nurse to contact me after the two doctors had talked and relay my nephrologist’s thoughts about the upcoming procedure.

I’ve found that most doctor’s are fine with this; they understand that I’m in renal failure but not yet on dialysis. It’s not only a protection for me but also a protection for them. The more information they have before they begin the less likely they are to make medical errors that place them at risk for legal action.

Jayhawker