Laparoscopic management for congenital paraesophageal hiatal hernia in children

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to analyze our experience of diagnosis and treatment of congenital paraesophageal hiatal hernia(PEHH). Methods Between 2005 and 2010, the records of 10 patients with PEHH were retrospectively reviewed. Five patients had a combination of sliding and paraesophageal hernia. The age ranged from 8 month to 10 year. Average age was 5. 2 year.Five case presented with anemia,2 cases with recurrent respiratory infection. 3 cases with vomiting and failure to thrive. Diagnosis was confirmed by upper gastro-intestinal constrast study and chest CT scans. All patients present with right paracardiac opacity and gas bubbles in the right lower thorax. In two cases, the opacity occupied the right thorax. We carried out modified Thal procedure to repair the paraesophageal hiatal hernia. Results Thal procedure was successfully completed in all patients. The.operation time ranged from 90 minutes to 150 minutes. The diameter of these hernia ranged from 3 to 5. 5 cm with most of stomach displaced into the thorax. Three pateints had transverse colon herniated into the thorax. In four patients, the gastric volvulus was encountered. Post-operatively, there was no evidence of gastro-esophageal reflux. Patients were discharged in 3 to 5 days. Symptoms subsided and the growth of the children was normal. Conclusions Early diagnosis and treatment for congenital paraesophageal hiatal hernia is recommended. Large defect is associated with displacement of gastro-esophageal junction into the thorax. Additional antireflux procedure to is recommended. The modified Thal procedure is an effective way of repairing PEHH. Key words: Hernia, hiatal; Laparoscopy surgical procedures