The patient, with a 30-year history of hypertension and coronary artery disease under medication, had undergone hernia surgery 40 years ago.
Elderly patients can benefit from laparoscopy if peri-operative optimisation is done well to prevent complications and reduce surgery time.
Chennai, May 27, 2025: SRM Global Hospitals successfully performed laparoscopic surgery to treat inguinal hernia in a 90-year-old lady with co-morbidities including hypertension and coronary artery disease. The hospital’s expertise and effective peri-operative care ensured a smooth procedure. Admitted in an emergency, the patient was discharged in stable condition on the third day and walked out on her own.
A hernia is a condition where an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue, often forming a visible lump or bulge. An inguinal hernia occurs in the groin area.
Laparoscopic surgery is a well-established approach for treating most abdominal and pelvic conditions in older adults. It offers clear benefits such as minimal surgical trauma, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. With skilled surgeons, modern facilities, and strong peri-operative support, outcomes in elderly patients can be significantly improved.
The surgical team was led by Dr. Sugi Subramaniam, Senior Consultant in Gastrointestinal Surgery, HPB Surgery, and Liver Transplant, supported by expert anesthetists. The peri-operative assessment and optimisation involved a multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, to ensure the patient was fully prepared for surgery.
Explaining the case, Dr. Sugi Subramaniam said:
“A 90-year-old woman presented with a one-month history of swelling in the right groin, which initially reduced on lying down but later became persistent and painful. She had systemic hypertension and coronary artery disease for 30 years, and had undergone left-sided open inguinal hernia repair 40 years ago. Evaluation revealed bilateral inguinal hernias with small bowel loops as contents—both direct and indirect on the right, and direct on the left.”
He added:
“After careful assessment of her general and cardiac fitness, she was deemed suitable for surgery and underwent bilateral trans-abdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) mesh repair, a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. Postoperatively, she was monitored in the ICU and then shifted to the ward. Oral intake was resumed on day one, and she recovered well. She was discharged in stable condition on postoperative day three and is doing well on follow-up.”
Dr. P. Sathyanarayanan, President, SRM Global Hospitals, remarked:
“With remarkable advancements in medical and surgical care, more people are living well into their 80s and beyond. As life expectancy increases, elderly patients often present with surgical needs—both elective and emergency—sometimes with added risks due to age-related decline. However, procedures like geriatric laparoscopic surgery offer a transformative solution. By combining careful peri-operative assessment, surgical precision, and focused post-operative care, we can minimise trauma and accelerate recovery in this vulnerable population. At SRM Global Hospitals, we strive to extend and improve quality of life in our aging population through teamwork, planning, and the power of minimally invasive techniques.”
