Video-assisted thoracoscopic repair of a lung hernia in a child

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Pediatric Surgery
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Pulmonary intercostal hernias are exceedingly rare, typically resulting from blunt chest trauma in children.
• These injuries involve a disruption of intercostal muscle fibers, allowing lung herniation.
• Previous reports are limited, highlighting the rarity of this condition.

Observation:

• A 13-year-old boy sustained a left anterior chest lung hernia.
• The injury was caused by blunt trauma from bicycle handlebars.
• The patient presented with symptoms indicative of chest wall compromise.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention was performed using a video-assisted thoracoscopic approach.
• A mesh was successfully placed to repair the defect.
• The minimally invasive technique facilitated anatomical restoration.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the feasibility and efficacy of thoracoscopic repair for pediatric pulmonary intercostal hernias.
• Minimally invasive surgery offers a viable alternative for managing this rare traumatic injury.
• Further research may explore optimal surgical strategies for similar cases.