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Spontaneous Diaphragmatic Hernia.
Mark D Darocki1, Anthony J Medak1
1University of California San Diego, Department of Emergency Medicine, San Diego, California.
Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine
|August 8, 2018
Summary
Spontaneous diaphragmatic hernia (SDH) is a rare surgical emergency where abdominal organs move into the chest. Surgical repair is the definitive treatment for this condition.
Area of Science:
- General Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Thoracic Surgery
Background:
- Spontaneous diaphragmatic hernia (SDH) is a rare condition characterized by intra-abdominal contents herniating into the thoracic cavity through a diaphragmatic defect.
- It is often precipitated by a sudden increase in intra-abdominal pressure.
- Fewer than 30 cases have been documented in medical literature, highlighting its rarity.
Observation:
- A 94-year-old female presented with acute respiratory distress and unilateral breath sounds.
- Diagnostic imaging confirmed the presence of a spontaneous diaphragmatic hernia.
Findings:
- The patient's presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with a spontaneous diaphragmatic hernia.
- Surgical intervention is the primary treatment modality for SDH.
Implications:
- While surgical repair is definitive, non-operative management including nasogastric tube decompression and oxygen therapy can stabilize patients.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for favorable outcomes in patients with SDH.
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