Can a surgeon do scope on someone who has a hernia that is the size of a grapefruit? they are diabetic, has copd and on oxygen 24/7

Absolutely. : Absolutely. But the decision to do so depends upon your individual situation. If the hernia is a ventral incisional hernia, then this is not difficult. But if it is an inguinal hernia, then it can be more challenging. I agree with the other answer as well in that size alone is not the only factor that a surgeon uses to make a proper decision on which technique or approach to use.

The : The size of the hernia is not the limiting factor as to whether a laparoscopic approach is feasible. Important considerations include whether the hernia is reducible or incarcerated (stuck out), new or recurrent (previously operated) and the overall medical condition of the patient not to mention the skill of the surgeon.

A : A skilled surgeon can scope anyone, however, this does not mean that it is the right thing to do. Laparoscopic hernia surgeons are very selective in the use of laparoscopic techniques for hernia repair. A large hernia in a patient with multiple medical problems precludes the use of laparoscopic techniques most of the time. A proper, "open" repair can be acomplished in these patients with large inguinal hernias under local anesthesia providing a safer procedure for the patient. Get an opinion from an experienced hernia surgeon.

You : You have left out some important information, such as the location of the hernia and whether it can be reduced, that is, pushed in, or not. In general, an individual with oxygen dependent COPD would do better with local anesthesia or spinal/epidural and an open hernia repair, not a laparoscopic repair.