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Intrathoracic Omental Hernia Repaired by Laparoscopy: A Case Report
Akitsugu Fujita1, Masaya Watanabe1, Masato Nishida1
1Gastroenterological Surgery, Shizuoka General Hospital, Shizuoka, JPN.
Cureus
|July 14, 2025
Summary
Intrathoracic omental hernia (ITOH) is a rare condition where the greater omentum protrudes into the chest. Laparoscopic repair offers an effective and minimally invasive treatment for symptomatic ITOH.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Thoracic Surgery
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Intrathoracic omental hernia (ITOH) is a rare hiatal hernia variant.
- The etiology of ITOH remains unknown.
- Symptomatic ITOH necessitates surgical intervention due to risks like intussusception.
Observation:
- A 79-year-old male presented with chest tightness during swallowing.
- Imaging (MRI, CT) diagnosed ITOH with greater omentum in the posterior mediastinum.
- The patient underwent laparoscopic repair for symptomatic ITOH.
Findings:
- Laparoscopic surgery successfully reduced the omental prolapse.
- Hernial orifice closure was achieved using a 3-0 barbed suture.
- The patient experienced a favorable postoperative recovery and was discharged on postoperative day six.
Implications:
- Laparoscopic repair is an effective and minimally invasive treatment for ITOH.
- Early surgical management is recommended for ITOH, even in asymptomatic cases.
- This case highlights successful laparoscopic management of a rare intrathoracic hernia.
