ADULT BOCHDALEK HERNIA PRESENTING IN LATE LIFE AS RESPIRATORY DISTRESS: A CASE REPORT AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

Background: Bochdalek hernia is a congenital posterolateral diaphragmatic defect usually diagnosed in neonates. Adult presentation is rare and often incidental or misdiagnosed. Symptomatic cases require surgical repair due to the risk of visceral herniation and volvulus. Case Report: A 68-year-old female presented with respiratory distress. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) revealed a posterior defect in the left hemidiaphragm with herniation of the gastric fundus into the thoracic cavity and associated lower lobe atelectasis. The patient underwent successful laparoscopic reduction of the herniated stomach and primary suture repair of the diaphragmatic defect. Intra-operative findings correlated with pre-operative imaging. Post-operative recovery was uneventful. Conclusion: Although congenital in origin, Bochdalek hernia may present late in life. CECT is diagnostic, and laparoscopic repair is safe and effective even in elderly patients.Background: Bochdalek hernia is a congenital posterolateral diaphragmatic defect usually diagnosed in neonates. Adult presentation is rare and often incidental or misdiagnosed. Symptomatic cases require surgical repair due to the risk of visceral herniation and volvulus. Case Report: A 68-year-old female presented with respiratory distress. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) revealed a posterior defect in the left hemidiaphragm with herniation of the gastric fundus into the thoracic cavity and associated lower lobe atelectasis. The patient underwent successful laparoscopic reduction of the herniated stomach and primary suture repair of the diaphragmatic defect. Intra-operative findings correlated with pre-operative imaging. Post-operative recovery was uneventful. Conclusion: Although congenital in origin, Bochdalek hernia may present late in life. CECT is diagnostic, and laparoscopic repair is safe and effective even in elderly patients.