Abstract
Bacground: Morgagni hernia is a rare congenital disorder. Numerous approaches have been described and, particularly the significance of laparotomy has been emphasized as an operative technique.
Aims and objectives: To present our experience on adult patients with Morgagni hernia operated on via transthoracic approach in our department.
Methods: Between 1980 and 2010, 33 patients with Morgagni hernia were operated in our department. Their ages ranged from 17 to 77 years (mean 53.17). There were 17 females. Chest x-rays, thorax computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, barium enema, and pneumoperitoneum were used as diagnostic utilities. Thoracotomy was performed in all cases. In only one case, laparotomy was applied in addition to thoracotomy.
Results: Twenty-five hernias (76%) were right-sided and eight (24%) were left-sided. Hernia sac was present in all cases. Exploration revealed only omentum in 11 patients (33.3%), colon and omentum in 13 patients (39.3%), only colon in three patients (9%), stomach, colon and omentum in two patients (6%), only small bowel in two patients (6%), stomach and omentum in one patient (3%), and only stomach in one patient (3%). There were no complications and no mortalities. There was no recurrence or symptoms related to the operation. The mean follow-up was 11 years.
Conclusions: We advocate transthoracic approach for surgical exposure as it provides wide exposure and repair of Morgagni hernia.
- © 2011 ERS
