Congenital paraesophageal hernia presenting with severe gastroesophageal reflux

Raghunath B Dipali1, Paras R Kothari, Dinesh K Sarda

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, L.T.M. Medical College and General Hospital, Sion, Mumbai-400022, India.

Insights

Paraesophageal hernias are rare in children and can cause respiratory or GI issues. Surgical repair of a right-sided paraesophageal hernia resolved symptoms in an 11-year-old girl.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Thoracic Surgery

Background:

  • Paraesophageal hernias are uncommon in pediatric populations.
  • Typical presentations include recurrent respiratory infections or nonspecific gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.

Observation:

  • An 11-year-old female presented with intermittent vomiting, heartburn, and signs of hypocalcemic tetany.
  • Diagnostic imaging confirmed a right-sided paraesophageal hernia.

Findings:

  • Surgical intervention involved reducing the herniated contents and repairing the diaphragmatic defect.
  • A Nissen fundoplication was performed concurrently with the hernia repair.

Implications:

  • Successful surgical management can lead to complete resolution of symptoms.
  • This case highlights the importance of considering paraesophageal hernia in children with atypical presentations, including hypocalcemia.

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