Why is perineal hernia surgery so risky and painful for older dogs?

Question

Hello, why is perinal hernia surgery very risky ? I had to put my best friend to sleep 3 weeks ago . He was almost 10. If he had surgery would he have been in a lot of pain afterwards? His bladder was almost fully in the hernia too. If i did surgery would his quality of life be better? Or because of his age it was best not to do surgery? I am still second guessing everything:-(. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Male | unneutered | 9 years and 5 months old

Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA · Accepted Answer

Perineal surgery is extremely difficult due to the abnormal/stretched anatomy and narrow safety margins to avoid major nerves and blood vessels. As the muscles and nerves have been stretched and displaced, normal outline and normal healing is unpredictable and outcomes are not certain. Infection of the surgical site is a significant risk also and many patients which develop hernias also have additional complicating factors with regards to anesthetic safety also. Recovery is slow, painful and often incomplete and such a surgery should never be undertaken lightly. I am sure your vet would have considered all possible risks and outcomes in assessing his case

Why is perineal hernia surgery so risky and painful for older dogs?

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