Hi, I have an abdominal hernia that has broken thru the muscle wall in the last several months. The hernia formed after a sigmoidectomy (it was ulcerated) & re-section surgery about 25 yr. ago. I've had no former trouble but excessive coughing from having the flu evidently caused the intestine to break thru at the original umbilical incision area, and also several places (on my left side) near where the appliance was inserted (for 90 days only) after surgery. I have been told by a local gastro-doc that any surgery to correct this condition will be risky & possibly life-threatening; and that I may have to wear a truss for the rest of my life instead. The intestine is pressing on my bladder causing me to be incontinent; the weight of it in this un-natural position is also is affecting the muscles of my lower back, causing extreme back pain by the end of the day. I am 71 years old and have led a moderately active life-style up until now. I feel that I need to get a 2nd opinion from a respected gastro-surgeon who has experience in this sort of corrective surgery. Thank you, Martha