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Paraesophageal Hernia in a Newborn Mimicking Esophageal Atresia
Zoi Lamprinou1, Dimosthenis Chrysikos1, George Tsakotos1
1Anatomy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, GRC.
Insights
Congenital paraesophageal hernia (CPEH) is a rare newborn condition. Early diagnosis and emergent surgery are crucial for treating this potentially life-threatening defect, preventing recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Neonatology
Background:
- Hiatal hernias, involving abdominal organ herniation into the chest via the esophageal hiatus, are rare in infants and children.
- Symptoms are often subtle and non-specific, complicating diagnosis in neonates.
- Surgical correction is essential due to the risk of severe complications.
Observation:
- A newborn presented with symptoms mimicking esophageal atresia, unable to pass an orogastric tube.
- A contrast study confirmed a congenital paraesophageal hernia (CPEH) with microgastria.
- The infant underwent emergent surgery for the condition.
Findings:
- The emergent surgical intervention successfully treated the congenital paraesophageal hernia.
- The patient has shown no signs of recurrence post-surgery.
- This case highlights the diagnostic challenges and successful management of CPEH in a neonate.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion for CPEH is warranted in neonates with persistent gastroesophageal reflux or respiratory issues.
- Signs suggestive of esophageal obstruction in neonates necessitate ruling out conditions like CPEH via upper gastrointestinal studies.
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are key for favorable outcomes in congenital hiatal hernias.
Abstract:
A defect of the esophageal hiatus can lead to herniation of the stomach or other abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity, a condition called hiatal hernia. They constitute a rare clinical entity during infancy and childhood and their symptoms can be non-specific or subtle, making the diagnosis difficult even for experienced clinicians. In all cases, surgical treatment of the defect is necessary because of life-threatening complications. We present a rare case of a newborn with congenital paraesophageal hernia (CPEH) and microgastria, who was initially referred to our center with the diagnosis of esophageal atresia due to the inability to pass an orogastric tube beyond 15 cm from the gum margin. A contrast study revealed the CPEH. The patient underwent emergent surgery and has had no signs of recurrence until now. Although the diagnosis can be very tricky and mimic other conditions, a high level of suspicion should exist especially in patients with persistent symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux or recurrent respiratory infections. In neonates, signs and symptoms can be indicative of esophageal obstruction which should be ruled out with an upper gastrointestinal (GI) study.
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