Serial sonographic findings in a fetus with congenital hiatal hernia

A continuum of prenatal findings in a case of hiatal hernia is described. Second-trimester scans showed absence of fetal stomach and polyhydramnios suggestive of esophageal atresia. Third-trimester scans revealed a dilated tubular structure in the thoracic cavity with intermittent visualization of an intra-abdominal small stomach. A diagnosis of hiatal hernia was entertained. After birth, the diagnosis of a dilated esophagus with the stomach herniated into the thoracic cavity through a very lax esophageal hiatus was confirmed and the baby underwent corrective surgery.