Can I undergo another hernioplasty with my heart disease?

Q: I am a 51 years old female diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) - anterior wall non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Coronary angiography revealed single vessel disease and I underwent percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) with stenting of mid and distal left anterior descending (LAD) artery four months back. I am taking Ecosprin 150, Clopilet 75, Meto ER 25, Cardace 5, Storvas 20 and Rantac 150. I had undergone inguinal hernioplasty four years back. Now I am suffering from swelling and discomfort in my right inguinal region. Do I need to undergo another hernioplasty?

A:I am afraid; any form of clearances for surgery cannot be given till one does a clinical examination and at times, certain investigations. In generic terms, if you have undergone angioplasty, then heart should not be a limiting factor for undergoing a hernia surgery. In fact, even if the arteries are blocked, these surgeries can be performed under proper cardiological supervision in centres equipped with good operation theatres and intensive care monitoring. I am afraid that’s about the most specific I can be for the query that you have posted and you should contact your cardiologist for the necessary clearance.