Diaphragmatic Hernia
Diaphragmatic hernia is a defect or hole in the diaphragm that allows the abdominal contents to move into the chest cavity. Treatment is usually surgical.
Types
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
- Morgagni's hernia
- Bochdalek hernia
- Hiatal hernia
- Iatrogenic diaphragmatic hernia
- Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia
Signs and symptoms
A scaphoid abdomen (sucked inwards) may be the presenting symptom in a newborn.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis can be made by either CT or X-ray.
Treatment
Treatment for a diaphragmatic hernia usually involves surgery, with acute injuries often repaired with monofilament permanent sutures.
Other animals
Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is a type of hernia more common in other mammals. This is usually treated with surgery.