Laparoscopic Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair

Yoshikazu Hashimoto, MD, Toshiyuki Mori, MD, Kouitirou Kojima, MD, Nobutsugu Abe, MD, Osamu Yanagida, MD, Tadahiko Masi, MD, Masanori Sugiyama, MD. Kyorin University

Congenital diaphragmatic hernias occur through embryologic defects in the diaphragm. A subset of adults (about10%) may present with a congenital hernia undetected during childhood. In adulthood, they are diagnosed incidentally or when they become symptomatic. Laparoscopic diaphragmatic hernia repair is increasingly performed in adults for congenital diaphragmatic hernias. We present our experience with laparoscopic diaphragmatic hernia repair.
A 17-year-old woman presented with left lateral abdominal pain without any history of trauma. Diaphragmatic hernia was suspected from chest X-ray and computed tomography (CT). Then she was diagnosed Bochdalek hernia by barium enema and upper GI series.
We present the case of diaphragmatic hernia, repaired laparoscopically. We describe the operational methods. The results of the operation were satisfactory. She was discharged on 6th POD. There was no recurrence in 3 years follow up.
Benefits include that laparoscopic diaphragmatic hernia repair provides an excellent view of the surgical field, ease of execution, minimal surgical trauma, excellent cosmetic results, rapid recovery, and shorter hospitalization stay.