A rare case of morgagni hernia in an elderly female

Abstract

Morgagni hernias (MHs) are rare and constitute about 2% of all diaphragmatic hernias. Although uncommon, it has the potential for considerable morbidity if the diagnosis is missed. We present a case report of a 70-year-old elderly diabetic female, who presented in casualty with breathlessness, acute upper abdominal pain, and vomiting. Chest X-ray and contrast-enhanced computed tomography scan chest and abdomen revealed a right-sided MH with impending ischemia of transverse colon as content. The patient underwent emergency exploratory laparotomy with primary tension-free suture repair of hernia defect after reduction of contents back in the peritoneal cavity, and transverse loop colostomy was fashioned. Postoperative course was uneventful. MHs being rare in occurrence, present a dilemma in diagnosis. A high index of suspicion with radiological assistance is required while assessing elderly patients presenting with respiratory distress to prevent morbidity and mortality.