Colonic Dyspnea and the Morgagni Hernia: A Rare Adult Diagnosis

Abstract

When confronted by vague pulmonary and abdominal symptoms, health care providers should be aware of rare and potentially life-threatening congenital diaphragmatic hernias.

Figure 1

Anteroposterior Chest X-ray Demonstration of abnormal contour of the cardiomediastinal border at the right costocardiac angle. There is bowel gas within this area.

Figure 2

Coronal View Computed Tomography Demonstration of the diaphragmatic defect at the right cardiophrenic angle containing intraperitoneal fat and a loop of transverse colon consistent with Morgagni hernia.

Figure 3

Sagittal View Computed Tomography Demonstration of the diaphragmatic defect at the right cardiophrenic angle containing intraperitoneal fat and a loop of transverse colon consistent with Morgagni hernia.

Figure 4

Intraoperative Photo of Anterior Diaphragmatic Hernia With Omentum Portion of the transverse colon is herniating into the chest.

Figure 5

Intraoperative Photo of Postreduction of Hernia Contents The defect was 3 × 8 cm.

Figure 6

Intraoperative Photo Demonstrating the Final Repair Product The hernia sac was left in place and the defect reapproximated primarily. Mesh was added to buttress the repair.