When should I refer a patient with an abdominal wall hernia for surgical evaluation?

Refer a patient with an abdominal wall hernia for surgical evaluation if they have symptoms such as pain, signs of incarceration or strangulation, or if the hernia is causing functional impairment or complications. Surgical referral is generally indicated when the hernia is symptomatic, enlarging, or complicated by obstruction or ischemia. In asymptomatic cases, watchful waiting may be appropriate, but clinical judgement should guide the decision to refer.

There are no specific UK NICE guidelines in the provided context explicitly detailing referral criteria for abdominal wall hernias; however, standard clinical practice supports referral for surgical evaluation when symptoms or complications arise.