GPs have an integral role in the journey of patients with this surgically treated condition.

An independent, underweight woman aged 83 years presented with a one-day history of worsening left lower quadrant pain, difficulty mobilising and vomiting without abdominal distension.

General practitioners have a key role in coordinating the care of patients with incisional hernia, in terms of detection, referral and optimisation of contributory comorbidities.

Recognising the signs of a hernia containing compromised contents is essential to prevent serious complications such as intestinal perforation, testicular atrophy and ovarian damage.