Hernia of Morgagni Presenting as Constipation in a 65-Year-Old Male

Hamza A Khan1, Adeel Samad1, Omar A Khan2

  • 1Medical College, The Aga Khan University.

Cureus
|June 29, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Morgagni hernias are rare congenital diaphragmatic defects. This case highlights a 65-year-old male with constipation, diagnosed with a Morgagni hernia via imaging and successfully treated with surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Diaphragmatic defects
  • Congenital abnormalities
  • Gastrointestinal surgery

Background:

  • Morgagni hernias are uncommon congenital defects of the diaphragm.
  • They often remain asymptomatic or present with nonspecific symptoms.
  • Early diagnosis requires a high index of clinical suspicion.

Observation:

  • A 65-year-old male presented with a six-month history of constipation.
  • Chest radiology suggested a diaphragmatic hernia, confirmed by contrast studies.
  • The hernia sac contained the colon and greater omentum.

Findings:

  • Surgical exploration (laparotomy) identified the Morgagni hernia.
  • Herniated contents were reduced, and the diaphragmatic defect was repaired.
  • The patient experienced a stable recovery and good follow-up.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering Morgagni hernias in adult patients with vague gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in identifying these rare congenital anomalies.
  • Surgical repair offers a definitive treatment for symptomatic Morgagni hernias.

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