Technical description of laparoscopic Morgagni hernia repair with primary closure and onlay composite mesh placement

Abstract

Introduction: Morgagni hernias rarely present in adult life and, thus, little data exist on the optimal method of surgical repair. The laparoscopic approach has grown in popularity since the first reported case in 1992. This article showcases a method for laparoscopic repair of Morgagni hernias using both primary closure and mesh reinforcement.

Operative approach: There were three obese women who presented in adulthood with cardiopulmonary symptoms; in all cases, the symptoms were attributable to local compressive effects of large Morgagni hernias. All three hernias were repaired laparoscopically, first by approximating the diaphragm to the fascia of the anterior abdominal wall, followed by insertion of a composite mesh, tacked to the diaphragm, to buttress the closure. All patients had excellent outcomes with symptom resolution.

Discussion: This case series describes a method of laparoscopic Morgagni hernia repair using primary closure reinforced with a mesh, with excellent postoperative outcomes. Others have described thoracic or open approaches. The authors feel that the method described herein is likely to reduce recurrence in a patient population who are often overweight or obese and, thus, have a high risk of this complication. Furthermore, we discuss all reported laparoscopic repair cases in the literature and highlight the paucity of evidence on the optimal approach.

Keywords: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia; Diaphragmatic hernia; Morgagni; Surgical mesh; Surgical procedures; Upper gastrointestinal tract.