TITLE:
Traumatic Diaphragmatic Hernia in Children: A Case Report
AUTHORS:
Lucienne Irène Patricia Ondima, Rhodia Hélène Bosseba Missengue, Nuptia Erica Akobande, Cardinale Princilia Okiemy Niendet, Jean-Claude Mieret, Caryne Mboutol-Mandavo
KEYWORDS:
Hernia, Diaphragm, Trauma, Child, Case Report
JOURNAL NAME:
Surgical Science,
Vol.15 No.3,
March
13,
2024
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is a rare condition in children
complicating closed or penetrating trauma to the abdomen and thorax. We report
the case of an 11-year-old girl with a traumatic diaphragmatic hernia. Case Presentation: An 11-year-old girl was seen in the paediatric surgery department for a
thoracolumbar spine deformity and intermittent chest pain. These symptoms
occurred after a domestic accident involving a fall from a low wall onto the
thoracolumbar spine 5 months previously. The diagnosis was suggested by the
presence of a left hemithoracic hydroaera and confirmed by a thoraco-abdominal CT scan. Surgical exploration revealed a
linear rupture of the entire left hemi-diaphragm with herniation of the
stomach, small intestine, cecum, transverse colon and omentum. We performed a
double-layer suture of the diaphragmatic rupture with a non-absorbable suture
without edge rejuvenation after the reduction of the hernia. The outcome was
favourable with normal postoperative radiographs at one year follow-up. Conclusion: Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia, although uncommon and difficult to diagnose, is a condition that is relatively easy
to manage surgically, even if it is discovered late. In all cases of trauma to
the thoracolumbar spine, regular follow-up and repeat X-rays are necessary if pain persists.