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Complete liver duplication with right central diaphragmatic defect
Mumtaz H Khan1, Naila Yaqub, M Ashraf
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Islamic International Medical College, Islamabad, Pakistan. mumtazhkhan@yahoo.com
Insights
A rare congenital anomaly, complete liver duplication within the chest, caused a diaphragmatic hernia in an 11-year-old boy. This condition led to recurrent respiratory issues and digestive problems since birth.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Congenital Malformations
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect where the diaphragm doesn't close properly.
- Intrathoracic liver is a rare anomaly, often associated with CDH.
- Presentation can vary, including respiratory distress and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old boy presented with chronic respiratory infections, constipation, and dyspnea.
- Symptoms were exacerbated by solid food intake.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed a diaphragmatic hernia.
Findings:
- Surgical exploration identified complete liver duplication within the right chest.
- The duplicated liver possessed independent vascular and biliary systems.
- A right central diaphragmatic defect was the cause of the diaphragmatic hernia.
Implications:
- This case highlights a unique presentation of intrathoracic liver and CDH.
- Surgical management requires careful consideration of the duplicated organ's anatomy.
- Understanding these rare anomalies is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Abstract:
An 11 years old boy was admitted with history of repeated chest infections, constipation and breathing difficulty especially on eating solid diet since birth. CT scan chest showed diaphragmatic hernia. Complete liver duplication in the right chest with its independent vascular and biliary systems associated with right central diaphragmatic defect leading to diaphragmatic hernia was found during surgery.
