The waiting game: laparoscopic repair of dual Morgagni and paraesophageal hernias in an elderly, infirm patient

Abstract

Morgagni hernias are congenital diaphragmatic disruptions that occur when intra-abdominal organs herniate posterior to the sternum. It is very rare to concomitantly diagnose a paraesophageal hernia (PEH) in a patient with a Morgagni hernia. Here, we describe an elderly female patient presenting with severe chest pain subsequently diagnosed with a non-strangulated Morgagni hernia as well as PEH. She underwent successful robotic laparoscopic surgical repair of the hernias with resolution of her symptoms. This case demonstrates the need for early surgical intervention of Morgagni hernias to prevent sequelae, such as strangulation, and the rising benefits of laparoscopic repairs in adult patients.