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Published:
Mar 14, 2023Keywords:
right-sided, atraumatic diaphragmatic hernia, perforated right hemi-colon
Article Details
Issue
Section
Case Report
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Main Article Content
Colonic perforation in a right atraumatic diaphragmatic hernia
MH Wellmann
VR Blanco
Abstract
A 38-year female with no prior medical or surgical history presented with pleuritic pain and respiratory distress. Imaging revealed a right diaphragmatic hernia with colonic content. At right anterolateral thoracotomy, a diaphragmatic hernia containing a perforated right hemi-colon was found. The colon was resected in the chest and continuity restored via a laparotomy. This case illustrates the risk of obstruction, ischaemia and perforation and highlights the importance of early identification and prompt surgical management to reduce morbidity and mortality.
