The risk with hernias is that a loop of intestine, or other intra-abdominal organ, can become stuck, or incarcerated, inside the hernia. This, in turn, can lead to bowel obstruction or even bowel strangulation.
If your hernia is very small, not enlarging, and is totally asymptomatic, then you might get away with watching it carefully. However, by not having it repaired, you do accept a small risk of incarcertion.
Sincerely/ Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS
http://doctorwascher.com
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