Question

I am an 84-year-old with an umbilical hernia. Having had heart bypass surgery in 1982 I would prefer not to have surgery. But can you recommend a truss as an alternative?

Answer

Wearing a truss for your umbilical hernia is really an option you need to discuss with your own doctor, who knows you, your medical and surgical history, and the size of the problem (inconvenience, symptoms, medical risk) presented by your hernia.
 

A truss consists of a pad that keeps the hernia in place and a belt to keep the pad in place. There are different types of pads and belts according to the type of hernia, and they need to be fitted by someone who can teach the patient the correct usage.
 

A truss should be cleaned by wiping it with a damp cloth but it should not be immersed in water. It's very important to take the truss off to clean the skin underneath. Trusses need to be renewed approximately every 12 months.
 

Please note that, if you and your doctor conclude that surgery is necessary, don't wear a truss in the meantime, as it can injure or weaken the tissues, making surgery more difficult or even impossible.
 

The links below may be helpful to you in learning more about hernias in general.

Related Links
AMA: Abdominal Hernias
MDAdvice.com: Hernia