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. (c) 2006 Elsevier SAS. Tous droits reserves.