[Morgagni hernia in infancy: report of 7 cases].

BACKGROUND

Morgagni or retrosternal hernia is a rare entity. It's representing almost 4% of all types of congenital diaphragmatic hernias in children.

POPULATION AND

METHODS

The data concerning 7 infants with Morgagni hernias (MH) have been retrospectively reviewed by the authors.

RESULTS

Their ages at presentation ranged from 7 months to 11 years. There were 4 males and 3 females. The majority of patients had repeated chest infections. The diagnosis was made on chest radiograph and barium enema. All patients were operated through the abdomen (5 upper midline, 2 laparoscopic approach). The hernia sacs were excised and the defects repaired in all patients.

DISCUSSION: Clinical awareness, early diagnosis and surgical treatment especially with laparoscopic correction, are important factors.

CONCLUSION

Surgical correction is needed for asymptomatic MH in children to obviate the risk of complications and because the treatment is easy.