Pediatric Morgagni hernia: A 10 year single center experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Outcomes
• Diaphragmatic Hernias

Background:

• Morgagni hernia (MH) is a rare congenital diaphragmatic defect.
• Presentation and management of pediatric MH vary.
• Optimal surgical approach requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review institutional experience with pediatric Morgagni hernia (MH).
• To analyze presentation, diagnostic workup, surgical techniques, and follow-up.
• To compare outcomes of different surgical repair methods.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 9 pediatric MH patients undergoing surgical repair (May 2014-May 2024).
• Data collected: demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging, surgical technique, and follow-up.
• Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney U test for comparing surgical approaches.

Main Results:

• Respiratory symptoms were most common (66%).
• Laparoscopic repair (55%) showed significantly shorter ICU stays (p=0.037) and mechanical ventilation duration (p=0.020) compared to laparotomy.
• Laparotomy group had longer NPO status and hospital stay; one patient (11%) experienced MH recurrence.

Conclusions:

• Laparoscopic repair of pediatric Morgagni hernia (MH) offers superior outcomes.
• Benefits include reduced ICU days, less mechanical ventilation, decreased narcotic use, and shorter hospital stays.
• Laparoscopic repair should be the preferred method for pediatric MH when feasible and safe.