Disorder - Hernia, diaphragmatic

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Sternal deformities; Cardiac deformities; Polycystic kidneys

Alternative Names
True diaphragmatic hernia; Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia; Congenital hernia

Presenting Signs

Diaphragmatic hernia occurs when the central tendon of the diaphragm (the sheet-like muscle separating the chest and the abdomen) fails to develop normally at an embryonic stage. As a result the contents of the abdomen are able to move into the chest. This can lead to difficulty breathing or increased rate of breathing, coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea, decreased food intake and other gastrointestinal signs.

Diaphragmatic hernias can also be acquired, often after trauma. At the time of presentation it is often not obvious whether the hernia is a congenital defect or the result of trauma. If the hernia extends into the sac around the heart this generally indicates a congenital component as there is not normally a defect here.

Breeds Affected
Persian
Siamese


Treatment

Treatment involves the surgical correction of the defect in the diaphragm. Once the integrity of the chest and abdomen are re-established the clinical signs should improve and the quality of life should return to normal.

PubMed References
Hernia, diaphragmatic

Contributor
Nicholas Wonders