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Acute hiatal hernia: a late complication following gastrectomy
Sara Piciucchi1, Carlo Milandri, Giorgio Maria Verdecchia
1Department of Radiology, IRST- Scientific Institute for study and treatment of Cancer, Meldola-Forlì; Italy. s.piciucchi@alice.it.
International Archives of Medicine
|October 6, 2010
Summary
This case highlights a rare complication of gastrectomy: acute hiatal hernia with volvulus during chemotherapy. This condition caused severe emetic symptoms and epigastric pain, requiring surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Presents a rare case of acute hiatal hernia.
- Occurred in a patient undergoing chemotherapy post-gastrectomy.
- The patient experienced significant emetic symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare late complication following gastrectomy.
- To describe the diagnostic process and management of acute hiatal hernia with volvulus.
- To emphasize the importance of considering rare complications in post-gastrectomy patients.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a female patient.
- Utilized abdominal radiography and CT scan for diagnosis.
- Involved subsequent surgical investigation.
Main Results:
- Radiography revealed left diaphragm elevation.
- CT scan identified left thoracic herniation and occlusion.
- Surgical investigation confirmed hiatal hernia with volvulus.
Conclusions:
- Acute hiatal hernia with volvulus is a rare, late complication after gastrectomy.
- Chemotherapy-induced emesis may precipitate or exacerbate this condition.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for management.
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