Abstract:
Purpose. Morgagni hernias are uncommon diaphragmatic
hernias that are generally asymptomatic, and so
far only limited data have been reported. The objective
of this retrospective study was to evaluate the outcome
of patients presenting with a complicated Morgagni hernia
and who undergo a transabdominal repair.
Methods. Between September 1999 and October 2005,
11 patients with Morgagni hernia were operated on
in our department. Eight of them had acute presentations
because of a complicated Morgagni hernia. The
patient demographics, presenting symptoms, operative
approach, and complications were collected. The
postoperative course was evaluated for morbidity and
mortality.
Results. The patients’ ages ranged from 42 to 85 years
(mean 69.4). Two (18.2%) patients were male and nine
(81.8%) patients were female. Chest roentgenograms,
computed tomography, and contrast meal studies were
used as diagnostic utilities. A transabdominal approach
was used for all patients. One patient died due to pulmonary
failure. The mean follow-up was 2.8 years.
There was no recurrence or symptoms regarding the
operation in the remaining patients.
Conclusion. We recommend the transabdominal approach
in patients with Morgagni hernia as it makes it
easy to reduce the hernia contents and repair of the
hernia sac. Moreover, when complicated with strangulation,
incarceration or perforation, a surgical repair
through a transabdominal approach is mandatory.
